At the Domestic Abuse (DA) Alliance, we believe in developing the next generation of legal professionals, committed to protecting survivors of domestic abuse. Through our Legal Champions Academy, we provide meaningful, hands-on experience in family law and civil protection, helping talented individuals build lasting careers in the legal sector.
One of our recent success stories is Dilrua Dassanayake, who began her journey with DAA as an intern and has now secured a Trainee Solicitor position with Milner Elledge.
Her journey reflects the power of structured legal training, real case exposure and a supportive professional environment.
A purpose-driven start in Domestic Abuse Law
Dilrua was drawn to the DA Alliance because of its mission and its technology-driven approach to accelerating access to justice through WEPROTECT.
“I found the purpose behind the DA Alliance and specifically WEPROTECT, to be very human and thoughtful. Helping clients who have been through domestic abuse and being able to offer them legal support at some of the hardest times in their lives is a truly meaningful purpose.”
Having studied Family Law during her postgraduate studies, she recognised that DAA would give her something universities may not – direct exposure to real domestic abuse cases, civil protection orders and client-centred legal support.
Through our Legal Champions Academy, Dilrua was able to move from academic understanding to practical application, developing confidence in handling injunction applications, preparing court documentation and directly supporting vulnerable clients.
Making a real impact on survivors’ safety
Working in domestic abuse law is not theoretical; it changes lives.
One particularly powerful moment for Dilrua came after helping a client prepare her court documents for a protection order.
“I could sense the relief she felt after finally disclosing everything she had been through… It was incredibly meaningful to later learn that she had obtained a final order.”
That experience reinforced the importance of early legal intervention and access to civil protection – something the DA Alliance prioritises through our WEPROTECT instant referral pathway.
For aspiring solicitors interested in family law or domestic abuse protection, this type of real-world exposure is invaluable.
Training, mentorship and professional development
A defining feature of our Legal Champions Academy is its structured support and training.
Dilrua credits the DA Alliance’s comprehensive induction training and ongoing supervision for helping her develop the skills required in domestic abuse casework.
“That foundation gave me the confidence and knowledge needed to support clients effectively.”
She also highlights the importance of the organisation’s collaborative culture:
“DAA feels more like a family than just a workplace… There is a strong culture of open communication, where we regularly speak with one another to resolve challenges and support each other.”
Working in emotionally complex domestic abuse cases requires resilience. Regular team discussions, supervision and mentorship ensured she was never facing those challenges alone.
From intern to senior caseworker
Over her two years at the DA Alliance, Dilrua progressed from intern to Senior Caseworker – gaining exposure to:
- Domestic abuse injunctions, such as Non-molestation and occupation orders
- Legal aid processes
- Court document preparation
- Client communication and safeguarding
Reflecting on her growth, she says:
“I started from scratch, but today… I have been able to pave my path forward and take meaningful steps toward my ultimate goal of qualifying and working as a solicitor in Family Law.”
She identifies empathy, precision, attention to detail and clear communication as some of the core skills she developed with us – qualities that are essential for any aspiring solicitor.
Building a career in Family Law
The experience and network she gained through the DA Alliance played a significant role in helping Dilrua secure her Trainee Solicitor role at Milner Elledge.
The Legal Champions Academy not only provides casework experience – it offers exposure to solicitor firms within DAA’s Legal Partner Network, structured professional development and a clear pathway into the legal profession.
“the DA Alliance offers not just a job, but a strong foundation for growth, learning and professional advancement.”
Why join the Legal Champions Academy?
For law graduates, aspiring solicitors or those passionate about family law and domestic abuse protection, the Legal Champions Academy offers:
- Hands-on experience in applying for civil protection orders
- Exposure to real domestic abuse casework
- Structured training and mentorship
- Development of essential solicitor skills
- Career progression opportunities
- Networking with legal professionals
By combining professional development with meaningful social impact, we are helping to shape the future of domestic abuse legal support in the UK.
To learn more about our Legal Champions Academy, visit:
https://domestic-abuse.co.uk/legal-champions-academy/
