
Our website is under construction!
Thank you for your understanding as we grow our organization!
RAISING THE STANDARD
FOR HOW SURVIVORS EXPERIENCE THE
CRIMINAL LEGAL SYSTEM
Transforming the criminal legal system’s response to survivors of sexual and domestic abuse through person-centered and trauma-informed practices, policies, research, and dialogue.
We Believe:
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The criminal legal system should not exacerbate trauma.
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Human dignity is a necessity, not a luxury.
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Justice is not defined as one, singular thing.
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Accountability and humanity can co-exist.
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We have the research, knowledge, and tools to improve the legal system's response to survivors.
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Progress is possible because people are already working towards it.
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We must support, strengthen, and advance criminal legal system reform.
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Survivors deserve more.
Our Initiatives

Comfort Bags
We cannot erase the harm done.
But we can offer comfort, affirm dignity, and make the legal system a more compassionate place for survivors — one interaction at a time.

Standard Practice
Practical, survivor-centered learning for the people and organizations who respond to survivors.

Trauma-Informed Design
The built environment of the legal system was not created with survivors in mind —but it can be.

Survivor Assistance
Financial limitations should not come in the way of survivors seeking justice through the legal system.

Survivor Blog
Survivors have voices. Let's listen.

Practitioner Blog
Change is possible. And there are plenty of people working towards exactly that.

Help Raise The Standard
Together, we can build a more compassionate criminal legal system for those navigating it. Whether you are a survivor, professional working in or adjacent to the system, or a community member, your voice is vital to our mission of healing and support.
Please Reach Out!
thesurvivorstandard@gmail.com
Located in Howard County, Maryland
Serving anywhere in the U.S.A.