The Safe Families Office is a lawyer staffed, courthouse based resource that provides temporary protective orders for survivors of intimate partner abuse. Our staff and partners make the justice system easier to understand and less intimidating. Each year, lawyers, social workers, paralegals and law students at the office help more than 3,400 visitors with community resources, legal consultation, advice, and direction. When someone needs a temporary protective order – the highest legal protection for a survivor and their family – we provide direct representation.

What We Do

We provide consultation and legal assistance for survivors of intimate partner abuse.

At a consultation, a survivor can:

• -Discuss legal options
• -Make a safety plan
• -Talk about opinions and goals
• -Obtain referrals for other support services

If a survivor needs a Temporary Protective Order, we assist with completing legal documents Our social workers provide resources and support to help navigate the process of leaving an abuser. 

Why It’s Necessary

It can be difficult for families to access and navigate the legal process. They may not be familiar with the justice system, have financial constraints, or fear future violence if the abuser becomes aware that the survivor has tried to take legal action.

The Safe Families Offices helps survivors navigate the justice system so they can access the safety and stability they deserve.

Our Impact

In 2018 and 2019, 98% of survivors were awarded extended Protective Orders when represented by our staff or volunteers in their evidentiary Protective Order hearings. Having access to legal counsel, safety planning, and quality, life-affirming conflict management assistance offers real hope for rebuilding healthy, positive lives.