allison.mahoney, Author at ALM Law • Page 3 of 7

Advocating for Survivors in New York During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In New York, domestic violence continues to be a pressing concern. In 2022 alone, nearly 39,000 survivors in New York City and more than 49,000 across the rest of the state sought help for domestic violence incidents. These numbers, reported by the State Comptroller’s Office, reflect only the cases that were officially documented — the […]

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Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Colorado – “With Survivors, Always”

Domestic Violence / allison.mahoney

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to recognize the prevalence of abuse, support survivors, and promote safety and justice in our communities. This year’s theme, “With Survivors, Always,” emphasizes partnership with survivors, offering safety, support, and solidarity. At ALM Law, we are committed to standing with survivors and providing expert guidance for those

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When Abusers Sue for Defamation: What Survivors Need to Know

Legal Services, Victims Rights / allison.mahoney

Speaking out about sexual assault, domestic violence, or child abuse takes immense courage. Survivors who come forward—whether in a public statement, a police report, or a civil lawsuit—are often motivated by a desire to protect others, reclaim their voices, or seek justice. But in some cases, abusers respond by weaponizing the legal system, filing retaliatory

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What to Expect in Court as a Victim: A Guide to Feeling Prepared and Empowered

Victims Rights / allison.mahoney

Going to court as a victim can feel overwhelming. You may not know what to expect, how to prepare, or what your rights are in the courtroom. Whether you’re involved in a criminal case, a civil lawsuit, or both, it’s natural to feel anxious about navigating the legal system—especially if you’ve already endured trauma. At

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How to Write a Powerful Victim Impact Statement

Domestic Violence, Image-Based Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, Title IX / allison.mahoney

After a criminal conviction, survivors are often left feeling sidelined by a justice system that moves forward without fully acknowledging their harm. But one important exception is the victim impact statement—a chance to speak directly to the court or parole board about how the crime affected your life. This statement can be read aloud or

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How to Appeal a Title IX Decision on Campus

Title IX / allison.mahoney

When a student goes through a Title IX investigation for campus sexual harassment, sexual assault, or dating violence, the final decision can feel like the last word. But under federal law, both the complainant and the respondent have the right to appeal. This appeal process plays a critical role in ensuring that Title IX decisions

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What Happens After a Campus Sexual Harassment Report?

Title IX / allison.mahoney

Reporting campus sexual harassment, assault, or stalking is a brave and deeply personal decision. For many students, coming forward is the first step toward reclaiming safety, dignity, and control. But what happens after a report is filed? How do schools respond—and what rights do students have during that process? Title IX is a federal law

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Colorado’s New Intimate Digital Depictions Law (SB25-288)

Cyber Abuse, Image-Based Sexual Abuse / allison.mahoney

woman with shattered image over her face - shows a deepfake conceptually

The rise of AI-generated abuse and digital harassment has rapidly outpaced the laws designed to protect victims. Survivors are increasingly targeted through the nonconsensual creation and distribution of deepfake pornography—highly realistic digital depictions that make it appear as if a person is engaging in sexual activity when they are not. Until now, many states, including

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The Take It Down Act: A Powerful New Law to Help Survivors of Cyber Sexual Abuse

CSAM, Image-Based Sexual Abuse / allison.mahoney

The internet can be a powerful tool—but in the wrong hands, it becomes a weapon. For too many people, particularly women and girls, intimate images are shared online without consent in an attempt to shame, control, or humiliate. This kind of abuse is known as image-based sexual abuse, or IBSA. It includes revenge porn, sextortion,

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Title IX for College Students: Know Your Rights, Use Your Voice

Title IX / allison.mahoney

Let’s be honest—college isn’t just about classes and campus life. It’s also a place where lines can get crossed. Sometimes badly. Whether it’s unwanted comments from a professor, pressure from someone you’re dating, or outright sexual assault, navigating these experiences while trying to stay on top of your education is a lot. Add in confusing

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