In New Mexico, where rates of domestic violence and sexual assault have historically outpaced national averages, the work of organizations like New Mexico Legal Aid is more vital than ever. This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we shine a light on NMLA’s Victim Services and Family Law Practice Group—a lifeline for survivors seeking safety and justice.

A Beacon of Hope for Those in Need

Behind every call to NMLA’s Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Helpline is a story of courage and survival. The helpline, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-877-974-3400, receives more than 100 calls each month. These aren’t just statistics—they represent real people, mostly women, facing unimaginable abuse, threats, and harassment.

Survivors often reach out in moments of desperation, unsure where to turn as they navigate the complexities of leaving abusive relationships, protecting their children, or seeking justice after sexual assault. NMLA is there to help them take that first, courageous step toward safety.

In 2024 alone, NMLA has so far opened over 1,000 cases for domestic violence-related legal matters. These cases included securing orders of protection, navigating custody battles, and providing legal guidance through divorce proceedings. The demand for NMLA’s services far outstrips the funding available, leaving many cases under-resourced. Yet the legal advocates and attorneys at NMLA press on, driven by the knowledge that their work saves lives.

Turning Fear Into Strength

The impact of NMLA’s work is best captured through the voices of survivors, whose names and details we’ve kept confidential to protect their privacy.

One young mother endured relentless threats from her ex-boyfriend, who once chillingly told her he would tie her and her child by their throats and leave them in a closet. After enduring this abuse for over a year, she finally reached out to NMLA. Through their guidance and support, she walked into court with confidence and walked out with a 20-year order of protection. The harrowing threats and intimidation were finally met with justice.

Another survivor had been trapped in a physically violent relationship where she was beaten and even threatened with a firearm. The emotional toll was heavy, but so were the physical scars. NMLA’s attorneys fought for her in court, presenting compelling evidence through testimony and medical reports. Thanks to NMLA’s advocacy, she was awarded a five-year order of protection. This woman received protection, validation, and support—key ingredients to rebuilding her life. The abuser also has criminal charges for his acts.

There are countless stories like these—stories of people who were once afraid to speak up, fearful of the legal process, or unsure of their rights. But with NMLA’s guidance, they found the strength to pursue justice and reclaim their sense of safety and self-worth.

A Growing Crisis

Despite the successes, the need for NMLA’s services continues to grow. From April to June of this year, the organization opened 392 cases and closed 333. Between June and September, those numbers surged, with 396 new cases and 245 closed. These numbers don’t just reflect legal battles won; they represent lives transformed and futures secured.

Unfortunately, the demand for NMLA’s services far exceeds the funding they receive. The helpline, in particular, is overwhelmed with calls, many of which involve cases of child sexual abuse—an alarming trend NMLA has been tracking. Shelters across New Mexico are frequently referring survivors to NMLA, adding to the growing number of cases that require attention, often involving severe and complex legal issues.

Community Partnerships and Outreach

One of NMLA’s most powerful tools is its ability to build strong community partnerships. In 2024, NMLA participated in key domestic violence task forces across New Mexico, including the Bernalillo, Sandoval, Valencia, and Dona Ana County Coordinated Community Response meetings, where leaders gather to address the needs of survivors and plan collaborative efforts.

NMLA also provided critical training to advocates, volunteers, and law enforcement. From teaching shelter staff how to assist survivors with legal paperwork to training officers on the dangers of strangulation in domestic violence cases, NMLA’s reach goes beyond the courtroom. They work tirelessly to ensure the entire community is better equipped to respond to the needs of domestic violence survivors.

These partnerships amplify NMLA’s impact, ensuring that survivors across the state can access the legal support they need no matter where they live.

Help Us Support Survivors

As Domestic Violence Awareness Month unfolds, we must remember that this issue is not confined to one month or one group of people—it touches every corner of our communities. NMLA’s Victim Services and Family Law Practice Group is on the frontlines of this battle every day, providing a path to justice and safety for those who need it most.

But the work cannot continue without support. NMLA is currently facing more cases than we have the funding to cover, and we need your help to continue providing these life-saving services. Whether you’re able to donate, spread the word, or get involved, your support matters.

This month, NMLA is hosting a Domestic Violence Awareness Month fundraiser to raise critical funds for their Victim Services program. Every donation helps ensure that survivors have the legal support they need to break free from abuse and start rebuilding their lives. Your contribution can provide hope and safety to someone in desperate need.

How You Can Help

• Donate: Your financial contribution directly supports survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. You can help by making a donation today.
• Spread the Word: Share this article, the helpline number (1-877-974-3400), and information about NMLA’s services with your networks.
• Get Involved: Join community efforts to raise awareness about domestic violence and support survivors by participating in events, attending fundraisers, or becoming an advocate.

Standing Together for Survivors

As the calls for help continue to pour in and the cases of abuse increase, NMLA’s Victim Services and Family Law Practice Group remains steadfast in its mission. This is more than just legal work—it’s about giving survivors the tools, confidence, and support they need to reclaim their lives. It’s about standing with them every step of the way and ensuring that their voices are heard and their safety is prioritized.

Domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking are realities that too many New Mexicans face every day. But with the support of our community, we can create a future where survivors feel safe, protected, and empowered to live free from fear.

Every call, every case, every survivor matters.