We are proud to share that Jessica K. Pride and Sophia Rebecca-Marie of The Pride Law Firm were recently featured in the April issue of Trial magazine, the official publication of the American Association for Justice.

This special edition focuses on representing survivors of sexual assault, highlighting trauma-informed techniques, navigating statutes of limitations, and overcoming forced arbitration.
In their article, they make it clear that truly effective advocacy goes far beyond knowing the law. It means leading with empathy, showing up with patience, and building a space where survivors feel safe, heard, and empowered from the very first conversation.

At The Pride Law Firm, we know sexual assault cases are more than legal matters. Instead, these incidents are personal and life-changing experiences that should always be handled with the utmost care, sensitivity, and respect for the survivor’s story and boundaries. Reach out to our team online or by calling (619) 516-8166 today to schedule a private, no-obligation consultation.

Jessica and Sophia outline how attorneys can better support survivors of sexual assault by using trauma-informed techniques in every stage of litigation. They discuss the biology of trauma, how to build trust through active listening, and the importance of offering survivors meaningful choices during intake and beyond.

You can read the full article here.

A Foundation Built on Believing Survivors and Rebuilding Trust 

At the heart of Jessica and Sophia’s article is a powerful message that our firm never strays from: believe survivors.

In a profession that leans on skepticism, they urge attorneys to remember to lead with trust and respect. False reports of sexual assault are exceedingly rare, yet survivors are frequently met with doubt. By choosing to support their clients from the beginning, attorneys can create a relationship based on safety and empowerment.

A survivor-centered legal approach also means helping clients regain a sense of control. This can be as simple as offering choices about where and when to meet, taking breaks during conversations, and always following through on promises. These small, thoughtful actions build rapport and remind survivors that they are not just another case. 

Understanding the Mechanics of Trauma and Responding With Care

Jessica and Sophia explain the five trauma responses, including fight, flight, freeze, flop, and fawn, and how they can shape the way survivors communicate. Rather than pushing for linear timelines or “perfect” answers, trauma-informed attorneys need to listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and allow space for stories to unfold naturally.

Because the legal process can be retraumatizing, the article expands on the importance of transparency and preparation. Survivors deserve to know what to expect and what protections are available. From privacy concerns to courtroom procedures, being open and honest at every step helps reduce fear and gives clients the confidence to stay engaged in their case. 

The Pride Law Firm: Meeting Clients Where They Are and Not Where We Expect Them to Be

Jessica and Sophia’s article highlights that legal support is not only a pathway toward justice but healing as well when lawyers offer the honesty and attentiveness survivors deserve. As attorneys, we need to see beyond simply winning cases and recognize the importance of caring for the people behind them.

If you or someone you love is looking for legal support or has questions about our team’s approach, The Pride Law Firm is here. We are ready to listen when you are ready to talk. Call our team today at (619) 516-8166 or fill out our confidential online form to learn more about taking the first step toward justice.