Attorneys: After a 4-hour CLE that offers training on the dynamics of intimate partner abuse, the statutes governing protective orders, and the mechanics of taking a case, attorneys can appear in court to help a survivor obtain a 12-month protective order to shield a family from violence.

Law Students: Law students can volunteer or intern at the Safe Families Office. With a semester commitment of at least 10 hours per week, all students will conduct clients interviews, draft pleadings and orders, and safety plan with client in our walk-in office in the Fulton County Courthouse. Under the supervision of an AVLF attorney, 3Ls will also be able to represent clients in 12-Month Order Hearings.

Those who staff the Safe Families Office (SFO) meet with the more than 2,000 survivors who come to the SFO each year. AVLF staff and pro bono volunteers help visitors understand the legal options that are available to those seeking protection from intimate partner violence and stalking, and when appropriate, aid them in securing a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) that is effective for 30 days.

Volunteer attorneys supported by AVLF staff represent victims seeking a twelve-month extension of that Temporary Order.

Survivors may apply for a TPO, valid for up to thirty days, in an ex parte hearing on the day of their first visit. Clients are expected to return to court for a full evidentiary hearing approximately two weeks later in order to have the order extended for a year. With a volunteer attorney at their side, survivors feel safer facing their abusers in court and advocate for extended legal protections.

If you’ve never taken a training or volunteered with us before, please fill out our volunteer interest form. We’ll help you set up a training date.

You can also reach out directly to our Safe & Stable Families Program Coordinator Lilli Crowe to get more information.