Victim Privacy Rights Cemented in 'Crystal Clear' Decision Turning N.H. into a Model for Other States

Lyn Schollett, executive director of the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, said the ruling will help to address long-standing problems where defendants use irrelevant personal information to embarrass and intimidate victims. The ruling is such a big victory for survivors that she burst into tears when she first read it, she said.

“This is a groundbreaking decision for victims of trauma, in particular,” Schollett said. “It’s a groundbreaking decision for anyone who seeks help and support from a mental health provider or from a domestic and sexual violence crisis center.”

As a result, advocates with the New Hampshire Coalition hope more survivors will have the confidence they need to seek help for themselves and accountability for those who abused them.

Hilary H. Rheaume, an attorney who signed a friend-of-the-court brief on behalf of the New Hampshire Coalition, said requiring that victims receive a heads-up and an opportunity to object “will change the way things are done in the courtroom.”

​Boston Globe
May 1, 2025

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