What We Do
Domestic Violence Program
The Domestic Violence Program team, who are trained and experienced in serving victims in a trauma-informed manner, offer representation in protection order cases, family law matters including custody, child support, and divorce, and immigration cases. We provide advocacy on victims’ legal rights in criminal proceedings against abusers, housing, employment, public benefits and other matters related to finances.
Our Advocates offer wrap-around services including trauma-informed crisis intervention, safety planning, and support services to ensure clients have the tools necessary to successfully escape violence and achieve safety, stability, and self-sufficiency.
Free Walk-in Clinics
We operate community-based clinics so victims, caregivers of at-risk children, and other disadvantaged residents can learn about their rights regarding protection orders, family law, immigration, criminal proceedings against their abusers, housing, employment, and public benefits; access free legal consultations; and receive support from our advocates. Locations include Children’s National Medical Center, Community of Hope, a church in Southwest DC.
We also operate a court-based clinic where we offer immediate legal assistance, including representation, to victims seeking safety through protection orders.
Legal Help Line
Victims may call our Legal Help Line to speak with an Advocate about victims’ legal rights, how to access our services, safety planning, crisis intervention, and referrals to community providers.
Child Advocacy Program
For 12 years, we have served as court-appointed Guardians ad litem for vulnerable children living in dangerous situations. The children range in age from newborn to 17 years old and most live in Wards 5, 7 and 8 in the District and in homes afflicted by poverty and trauma. Many are growing up in homes plagued by violence. Of the children that we have represented in the last two years:
- 67% witnessed domestic violence.
- 62% were abused, either physically or sexually.
- 91% either witnessed domestic violence, were abused themselves, or both.
Our lawyers conduct a thorough investigation of the child’s home life, including interviewing the child, parents, other family members, teachers, counselors, medical providers, and others involved in the child’s life. They also review police reports, criminal records, child protective service agency reports, and educational and medical records. Throughout the course of the case, the lawyers attend hearings to present their investigative observations and make recommendations to the court regarding custody and visitation that is in the best interests of the child.
Our well-trained attorneys provide a voice in court for these young victims with the goal of ensuring a safe and secure home for each child.
RELIEF: Representation & Legal Services for Immigrant Families
We are happy to announce that we are now offering immigration legal assistance, focusing on relief for victims, including VAWA self-petitions, U and T Visas, and asylum claims. Click here for more information.
From your tone, to your spaces to let me have a moment, to your careful explanations … I thank you. You are truly a gem. It is especially comforting after having so many doors slammed in my face and my life turned on its head.
– a DCVLP client in an email to our Client Advocate.