Advocate
LACLJ created a new project entitled Advocate (Advocacy in Domestic Violence and Custody Trials) in 2008 to protect victims of violence and their children by partnering with major law firms to represent these families in their permanent restraining order hearings (PRO).
Although there are many resources to assist victims of violence with filing a temporary restraining order (TRO) after an incident of violence, this protection is short lived. A TRO contains orders protecting the client from their batterer until the hearing for the PRO takes place. It may include personal conduct orders, a stay-away order, and even custody and visitation orders if children are involved. When the TRO is granted, these orders are in effect for only three weeks until the permanent restraining order hearing. At the hearing, both parties have the opportunity to tell the judge about the violence and present any evidence or witnesses. Because domestic violence is a crime that often takes place behind closed doors, it can be difficult to prove, especially if there are no photos, police reports or witnesses. The purpose of Advocate is to provide increased protection to victims of violence and their children by assisting them in obtaining a permanent restraining order and engaging these families into supportive services to stop the abuse.
Through the Advocate program, private firm attorneys provide full representation in the permanent restraining order trials. The pro bono attorneys prepare and conduct pro bono work entailing:
- Interviewing the client
- Interviewing and preparing witnesses
- Procuring evidence, including transcripts, criminal records, etc.
- Conducting research
- Negotiating with the opposing party
- Examining witnesses on direct and cross examination
- Admitting evidence
- Delivering opening and closing arguments
To make an appointment for services, please call (323) 980-3500. Geographic and income restrictions may apply based on funding sources and we may not be able to provide assistance to everyone.
