February 25, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Margaret Petros, Executive Director
Organization: Mothers Against Murder “MAM”
Phone: 1(650) 248-9529
Email: mpetros@mothersagainstmurder.org
Mothers Against Murder “MAM”, Peninsula Victim Advocacy Community Based Organization, Secures Landmark Victory for Crime Victims’ Rights in California Superior Court
In a monumental win for victims’ rights, Mothers Against Murder (MAM) has successfully challenged the California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) in court, ensuring that crime victims are afforded the due process they have long been denied. The Alameda County Superior Court Judge ruled in favor of MAM, granting a Writ of Mandate that restores in-person hearings for victims contesting denied compensation claims.
For the past 15 years since 2009, thousands of crime victims in California have been denied fair hearings, forced to rely solely on written records that failed to capture their full experiences. This systemic injustice often resulted in wrongful denials of compensation, leaving victims without critical financial and emotional support. MAM’s lawsuit successfully exposed how CalVCB’s regulations had unlawfully stripped victims of their right to an evidentiary hearing, violating California law. The court’s ruling invalidates the California Code of Regulations Title 2, Section 647.20.1, which had improperly restricted victims to hearings based only on written records in file.
“This ruling is a lifeline for thousands of victims who have been silenced by an unfair system,” said Margaret Petros, the Executive Director and the expert Victim Advocate at MAM, and whose persistence proved CalVCB has been doing it wrong all along!! “Survivors deserve the dignity of being heard, not dismissed through paperwork. With this decision, justice has been restored.”
The decision mandates that CalVCB immediately cease its unlawful practices and provide victims the option of an in-person hearing when contesting compensation denials. This victory will impact thousands of victims across California who will no longer be denied due process, ensuring that no victim is ever ignored again.
MAM extends its deep gratitude to The Honorable Judge Frank Roesch of Alameda County Superior Court for recognizing the fundamental rights of crime victims and issuing a ruling that upholds justice and fairness.
In a final and decisive conclusion to this case, The Honorable Judge Sarah Sandford-Smith of Alameda County Superior Court ruled that MAM is entitled to attorney’s fees and costs, awarding $96,920.32 to the organization. This ruling recognizes the significant public benefit of MAM’s fight and reinforces the importance of holding state agencies accountable when they violate victims’ rights.
Mothers Against Murder expresses deep gratitude to the Honorable Judge Sarah Sandford-Smith for recognizing the importance of this case and ensuring that justice is served—not only for MAM but for all crime victims in California and for the attorneys who stand up for crime victims’ rights in CA Courts.
Additionally, Mothers Against Murder expresses profound appreciation to attorney Robert David Baker, whose dedication and unwavering believe in this cause made this victory possible. His commitment to justice and his support of MAM’s relentless advocacy for victims' rights played a pivotal role in securing this landmark decision.
“This ruling is more than just a legal decision—it is a resounding affirmation that victims’ rights matter,” added Roger Smith, MAM’s Founder, Chairman, and the man who is solely responsible for funding this legal battle . “We will continue to fight for victims and hold institutions accountable for their duty to serve and protect the most vulnerable during the difficult times of surviving and healing from tragic acts of violence.”
For further information or to schedule an interview, please contact Margaret Petros at (650) 248-9529 or mpetros@mothersagainstmurder.org
About Mothers Against Murder
Mothers Against Murder is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for crime victims and their families. Through legislative efforts, advocacy, and community support, MAM fights for justice and ensures that victims' voices are heard and respected.
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