Legal ProgramCombining advocacy, assistance, and first response services, the Legal Program of A Woman’s Place (AWP), through three key components, helps victims of domestic and dating abuse and violence navigate the criminal and civil justice systems, while providing ongoing advocacy and training to individuals, agencies, and institutions within the justice system to create lasting social change. Legal Advocacy ProgramAWP’s Legal Advocacy Program provides information, legal options, referrals, and support to victims of domestic and dating abuse and violence seeking justice through the legal system. Staffed with lay advocates, legal advice is not given, but information shared about the law including what legal options are available and how to access legal recourse. Individuals seeking services and support from the Legal Advocacy Program choose what, if any, legal action they wish to take. Advocates do not recommend a particular direction, but will support whatever decision is made while providing information, options counseling, empowerment crisis counseling, emotional support, safety planning, assistance with filing a Protection from Abuse Petition (PFA), and court accompaniment to PFA hearings. AWP’s Legal Advocacy Program partners with the Legal Aid of Southeastern PA in an effort to ensure legal representation for individuals in court. First ResponseThe First Response Team at AWP provides 24-hour in-person emergency crisis counseling, safety planning, information, education, and referrals to victims immediately following an incident of domestic abuse. This service is provided county-wide to all 42 police departments. First Response Advocates provide continuous follow-up support and counseling to victims navigating the criminal justice system assisting with Victim’s Compensation, Victim Impact Statements, and referrals to meet their needs. Additionally, they partner with community police department in educating officers regarding the concerns and needs of victims of domestic and dating abuse and violence. Currently, police officers and advocates are collaborating on the utilization of a Risk Assessment Tool when responding to domestic calls. Victims are asked a series of questions to assist the officer in evaluating the potential lethality to the victims and, possibly, to police officers. |
