50 new legal advocates graduate to support victims of domestic violence

By The Star Staff

Women’s Advocate Astrid Piñeiro Vázquez announced on Thursday the graduation of 50 new legal advocates from the Legal Advocate Academy of the National Network of Shelters of Puerto Rico, as part of an initiative supported by the Office of the Women’s Advocate.

“Today we celebrate with great pride the achievement of this group of legal advocates who successfully completed their training process,” Piñeiro Vázquez said in a written statement.

The agency emphasized that thE group of professionals was trained with a strategic curriculum that responds to the needs observed in the island’s courts, focusing on strengthening the legal representation and defense of survivors of domestic violence.

“This academy is not just another training program; it stands out because it was designed in collaboration between the National Shelter Network and our Office, strategically responding to the real needs we are seeing in the country’s courts,” Piñeiro Vázquez added.

The official noted that the program’s main objective is to strengthen the legal support system for survivors, ensuring they have adequate support and legal preparation in judicial proceedings.

“To those completing this stage today, we congratulate you for your dedication, sensitivity, and commitment,” Piñeiro Vázquez said. “Your work is essential on the path toward a more just, equitable, and violence-free Puerto Rico. Congratulations on this achievement and thank you for being part of the change.”