The National Clearinghouse for the Defense of Battered Women (NCDBW)

The National Clearinghouse for the Defense of Battered Women (NCDBW) is a Pennsylvania-based organization with a mission to secure justice for victims of battering charged with crimes, prevent their further victimization, and transform the oppressive policies, practices and systems that criminalize and endanger survivors. NCDBW works for justice for victims of battering charged with crimes where a history of abuse is relevant to their legal claim or defense. Their services are provided free of charge. NCBDW works with a defendant's legal team to assess the situation and determine how NCBDW can provide assistance, including identifying defense strategies; providing relevant case law and examples of litigation materials; locating expert witnesses when needed/requested; helping to identify support networks for victim defendants who are facing trial or whose cases are on appeal; suggesting other relevant sources of information and assistance. NCDBW does not provide crisis services, legal advice or representation, or financial assistance. NCBDW's goal is to help battered women help themselves so they never become defendants in criminal cases.