Program Spotlight: Legal Advocacy Team

The court system can be scary and overwhelming. We believe no survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault should have to navigate that process alone. The Victim Advocate and Court Advocate answer questions about the process and attend court.

Protection from Abuse Orders (PFAs)

If you have experienced a domestic violence incident, someone may have suggested you request a PFA. But what does that mean? Protection from Abuser Orders are a type of restraining order specifically for intimate partner relationships. Our Court Advocate can help you complete the paperwork, and she always attends PFA Court. Once the PFA has been given to the offender, the offender can be arrested for contacting or coming too close.

*Due to COVID-19, the Shelby County Courthouse is closed to the general public, but you may still go to the clerk’s office to file for a PFA.*

Court Accompaniment

The Victim Advocate and the Court Advocate can accompany domestic violence and sexual assault victims to court. The Court Advocate will sit with clients during civil cases, such as divorces, and the Victim Advocate may attend criminal cases that relate to victimization.

Lethality Assessment Program

SafeHouse partners with our local law enforcement to provide the Lethality Assessment Program (LAP). Police Officers called to the scene of a domestic distrubance can use an 11 question screening tool to help them assess if a domestic violence victim may be in danger of homicide. That officer will then call the crisis hotline on the victim’s behalf. The Victim Advocate tries to make contact within 72 hours after someone has been screened through the LAP.  

Contact Us! 
Do you have a PFA or are you interested in requesting one? You can reach out to Abby to learn more about the process. Email her at abbyb@safehouse.org

The Victim Advocate is happy to help with any criminal case that relates to domestic violence. Email Elizabeth at elizabethc@safehouse.org

SafeHouse also runs a 24/7 crisis hotline for domestic violence and sexual assault victims seeking services. Call 205.669.7233 to get more information about emergency shelter, sexual assault forensic exams, counseling or case management.