Legal Voice (2015)

Reported results in their unique suit on behalf of a woman, an Iraq war veteran, who had been abused by her former spouse. The plaintiff sought services from the Washington State Department of Social Services, which instead of assisting her, took custody of her son and garnished her veteran’s benefits.  Viklund v Department of Social and Health Services

The case settled with the State providing her an extremely large cash settlement and with an agreement by the State to review its procedures relating to victims of partner violence. 

“We could not have done this work without the generous assistance of the Barbara McDowell Foundation, which is known for its commitment to social justice and the rights of all people to equal justice under the law,” Lisa M. Stone, Executive Director. 

Click here to see the original grant, including the six-month and year-end reports.