Victim Rights Attorneys from the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network (SCVAN) and University of South Carolina School of Law’s Domestic Violence Clinic trained a group of associates and partners on restraining orders in the Columbia office. The training kicks off a new Nelson Mullins Pro Bono Restraining Order Pilot Project in Richland County assisting survivors of harassment and stalking with obtaining restraining orders.

Trainers Sarah Ford, Rebekah Hiatt, and Marie Maness gave a detailed overview of SC law regarding restraining orders, as well as acting out a mock initial consultation and mock trial for the participants. Volunteer attorneys will represent pre-screened survivors in Magistrate’s Court to request these orders. SCVAN and USC’s DV Clinic will provide support and mentoring throughout the process.

Associates volunteering for this project include: Madison Guyton, Kendall Eoute Topper, Connor Jasso, Jurnee Jones-Holcombe, Bryant Neal, Nick Quatraro, Naseeha Sabree, Morgan Thompson, Arslan Valimohamed, Elaine Yap, and Caroline Warner. A big thanks to partners Matt Abee, Dell Chappell, Jarrett Coco, Chris Genovese, Jack Pringle, and Patrick Quinn for supervising the associates with these cases.

The Pro Bono Department hopes to expand this project across South Carolina in the years to come, especially to rural areas that lack access to attorneys. Restraining orders are a critical tool to provide safety and de-escalation in cases of stalking and harassment.