SGB Attorneys Sergio Garcidueñas-Sease and Becky Roe discuss their work with the Sexual Violence Law Center
Seattle attorneys Sergio Garcidueñas-Sease and Becky Roe proudly partner with the Sexual Violence Law Center to provide legal support to survivors of sexual violence
SGB attorneys, including Sergio Garcidueñas-Sease and Becky Roe, partner closely with the Sexual Violence Law Center (SVLC) to provide survivors with essential, trauma-informed legal support. Through this collaboration, survivors obtain protection orders for domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment and elder abuse.
With decades of combined experience in civil litigation and survivor advocacy, Sergio and Becky share their insights on SGB’s partnership with SVLC and the importance of compassionate, survivor-centered representation.
Q: What is the Sexual Violence Law Center (SVLC), and how did you get involved?
A: The Sexual Violence Law Center (SVLC) is a Washington nonprofit that provides pro bono legal services to survivors of sexual assault and other forms of violence. They help survivors navigate a complicated legal system and connect them with qualified attorneys who can protect their rights and safety and ensure a survivors access to justice.
SGB’s partnered with SVLC out of a shared commitment to stand with survivors. Together, we help clients access legal representation and the resources they need to move toward safety, stability, and justice.
Q: What types of legal support does the Sexual Violence Law Center provide to survivors?
A: SGB attorneys assist survivors, through SVLC, in obtaining protection orders involving domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, and abuse of vulnerable adults. These cases can be legally and emotionally complex – many require presenting detailed evidence, and some involve criminal proceedings.
Whether straightforward or contested, the process can feel overwhelming. Our role is to guide survivors through each step and ensure their voices are heard in court.
Q: Why is this work meaningful for you and your colleagues at SGB?
A: Survivors often come to us carrying deep fear and uncertainty. They’ve already endured more than anyone should. When a court grants a protection order, we see a palpable sense of relief – sometimes the first moment a survivor feels safe. Supporting SVLC allows us to use our legal experience and skills to make an immediate, tangible difference in someone’s life.
Q: In what ways does collaborating with SVLC strengthen your impact?
A: SGB’s partnership with SVLC extends beyond individual cases. SVLC provides ongoing trainings and workshops to help us approach this work through a trauma-informed, holistic lens – ensuring we serve survivors with the care and sensitivity they deserve.
Q: How does this partnership reflect SGB’s broader commitment to the community?
A: SGB was founded on the belief that the law should protect those who need it most. Working alongside organizations like SVLC strengthens that mission, helping survivors access safety, dignity, and justice. Our partnership demonstrates how legal professionals can create lasting impact beyond the courtroom.
Learn more about the Sexual Violence Law Center and how you can get involved: https://svlawcenter.org/