In collaboration with the Tahirih Justice Center’s Maryland office, Gallagher recently secured asylum for “Dora,” a West African young woman fleeing a forced marriage and the threat of female genital mutilation.
Faced with the prospect of an arranged marriage to a man twice her age, Dora courageously traveled alone to the United States and arrived in Maryland as an unaccompanied child seeking asylum. As part of the forced marriage, she was expected to undergo female genital mutilation at 16 years old.
With the trauma-informed advocacy of legal counsel at Gallagher and the Tahirih Justice Center, Dora prepared for her asylum case in the midst of attending and graduating from high school. This was further complicated by difficult circumstances, including unannounced “wellness checks” by federal agents during the course of the school year.
We are thrilled to share that Dora recently won asylum and is now able to pursue lawful permanent residence, work authorization, and fulfill her dream of attending college to become a doctor.
“Gallagher’s commitment to zealous pro bono advocacy is what helps make justice accessible for those most vulnerable. Tahirih Justice Center’s mission to end gender-based violence for immigrant survivors like Dora would not be possible without partners like Gallagher who are willing to fight for justice,” said Daniella Prieshoff, Senior Managing Attorney at Tahirih Justice Center’s Maryland office.
The Gallagher team was led by Ward Coe, Leah Rowell, and Samantha Stephey.
About Tahirih Justice Center
The Tahirih Justice Center is a nationwide nonprofit organization that serves women, girls, and all immigrant survivors of gender-based violence. Their whole-person approach provides each survivor with free legal support and social services to secure their rights and build stable lives. By amplifying the experiences of immigrant survivors, the center’s mission is to create a world in which all people share equal rights and live in safety and with dignity.
About Gallagher
For almost 65 years, Gallagher has been a trusted partner to businesses and non-profits across the Mid-Atlantic region and nationwide. We represent leading universities, hospitals, financial institutions, real estate developers, and more. Our firm is experienced in a wide range of practice areas, including real estate development, affordable housing, civil litigation, confidential investigations, healthcare, employment law, corporate law, renewable energy, and tax-driven transactions. We pride ourselves on offering innovative, practical solutions with a personal touch, acting as your partner and trusted advisor. With a deep commitment to seeing challenges from every angle, Gallagher is here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape with confidence.