30 Years of Impact
For three decades, we have delivered tangible, measurable and life-changing outcomes for DC children and families. But we don’t stop there. We tackle complex problems and stay involved until the solution is effective.
We help DC children by:
Since 1996, we’ve reached more than 60,000 children and families directly, secured the passage of 50+ laws and improved countless government policies – changing the lives of hundreds of thousands of children.
Our work to reform DC’s behavioral health system continues today.
As D.C. Weighs Budget Cuts, Families Fear Loss of Youth Mental Health SupportA stable family is a critical building block for a child’s success. We are appointed by judges in the District court to represent children in foster care or when caregivers are disputing custody. And, with the launch of Families Together, we’re reaching more families sooner.
Helping expectant and new parents give their child a strong start.
Learn More About Families Together20 years ago, Children’s Law Center implemented a bold idea: make lawyers part of the medical team and use the law to resolve health issues. It became one of the first medical-legal partnerships in the nation. Now we have lawyers sitting in ten health clinics across the city.
"It was clear that staying in this building wasn’t safe or healthy."
Fighting Hurdle after Hurdle for Safe HousingEvery child can learn if they are in the right educational setting. This is especially important for students with disabilities. Our lawyers work with the parents and school to get a child’s education back on the right path.
"I’m going to do everything I can to put together a roadmap for [Tremonte] to have a safer learning environment." - Ms. Johnson
A Road Map to the Right Learning Environment
2025 Annual Report
In 2025, DC families felt the deep effects of local and federal budget cuts, furloughs and job losses. Add to that a federal occupation and threats to DC’s home rule, it was – and continues to be – a challenging time. But 2025 was also a year of rapid response and problem solving.
Judith Sandalow named 2025 Washingtonian of the Year
Children’s Law Center CEO Judith Sandalow has been recognized by the Washingtonian Magazine as a 2025 Washingtonian of the Year. She joins nine other leaders who are making a difference throughout the region.
Ways to Give
Children’s Law Center depends on the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations to make our work possible. As a result of their support, we are able to continue fighting – and winning – for thousands of DC children and families.
Support Our WorkOur Team
All Team Members-
Emily Madden
Supervising Attorney, Guardian ad Litem
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Gabriela Velasquez
Bilingual Legal Intake Specialist
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Jasmine Vincent
Development Operations Manager
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Nickie Cardamone
Senior Education Attorney, Healthy Together and Guardian ad Litem