Maryland Legal Aid files amicus brief

MARYLAND. – A Maryland organization aimed at protecting domestic violence survivors is taking a case to the highest court in the nation.

Maryland Legal Aid filed an amicus brief with the supreme court of the United States, to ensure domestic violence victims are protected against gun violence perpetuated by their abusers.

The new brief challenges the US v. Rahimi case, pushing for the supreme court to include specific wording that will make it harder for domestic violence victims to be targeted by their abuser with a firearm.

In other words, Amee Vora, the director of MLA advocacy, said those offenders would face harsher penalties.

“Maryland Legal Aid has gotten involved in the Rahimi case, which concerns the ability of governments to restrict firearm access for individuals who are subjected to a domestic violence protection order,” Vora said.

If the brief is struck done by the supreme court, MLA said their clients will be put at a greater risk, which they hope to avoid.

“If the supreme court dose in fact strike down these laws as being unconstitutional, I fear for the safety of my clients,” Vora said. “I will have to work with other social services providers, and even on my own to help them safely plan for the possibility that their abuser is going to get to hang on to their firearm.”

The state likely won’t have an answer on the supreme court’s decision until the fall.

MLA officials remain adamant that no matter the decision, they’ll be able to provide the best assistance possible to their clients.