Foley Hoag Successfully Represents Domestic Violence Victim Against Police Abuser
Boston, MA - July 21, 2008
A duo of Foley Hoag lawyers, Shaun Skeya and Maimoona Sahi, successfully represented a domestic violence victim at a 209A hearing at Somerville District Court, defeating the batterer’s motion to be allowed to carry a firearm during his work as a police officer. This case represents another successful outcome for a victim of domestic violence. The prevention of such violence is a signature piece of Foley Hoag’s pro bono program.
Our client had previously requested and had been granted a 209A order against her police officer ex- boyfriend for repeated incidents of intimidation. The key issue at the later hearing was defending against the batterer’s request to be allowed to carry a firearm on his job as a police officer. The defendant argued that his employment status would suffer as a result of his inability to carry a weapon.
In her written ruling, Judge Sabita Singh denied the defendant’s request, noting that “the defendant’s requested modification, to be able to carry firearms while on duty, places the plaintiff's safety directly at risk …. While the defendant's employment may well be terminated due to his inability to carry a firearm, this court finds that modification of the order would be inconsistent with its purpose, which is to protect the plaintiff from harm and the fear of imminent harm.”
Foley Hoag’s pro bono program has been the pride of the firm since its representation of the plaintiffs in the original lawsuit to desegregate the Boston public schools. Lawyers are encouraged to engage in pro bono work and other community service activities. In a typical year, the firm handles approximately 100 matters and contributes approximately 20,000 hours to pro bono causes. Almost two decades ago, the firm established a pioneering program representing victims of domestic violence.
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