Arizona Voice for Crime Victims, Arizona State University College | Award for Professional Innovation in Victim Services
Team Members: Keli Luther; Shawn Cox
Tempe, Arizona
The Crime Victims Legal Assistance Project (CVLAP), established and operated by Arizona Voice for Crime Victims, is housed in and supported by the Arizona State University College of Law. Started with a VOCA grant in 2001, CVLAP was the first free legal clinic for crime victims, representing them in the fight for their rights at every stage of the criminal justice system and providing needed social services throughout the legal process as well.
In Arizona, CVLAP is already changing the culture of the criminal justice system in ways that honor the rights and interests of crime victims. Since its inception, the CVLAP has provided free representation and social services to crime victims in hundreds of cases. In each case, there has been rigorous advocacy for the rights and needs of victims, and this advocacy has changed the law and culture and made a difference in the lives of victims.
CVLAP has brought together the legal community and the social services community to forge a bold and stunning partnership in service to crime victims. This project has inspired the replication of similar clinics across the Nation.
This project was nominated by Senator Jon Kyl.