If you’ve been hurt by a household or family member–or have experienced stalking, harassment, or dating violence–you may benefit from legal expertise. We partner with Legal Aid of WV and local attorneys to provide legal assistance. Survivor advocates at any of the local programs can assist you with obtaining free or reduced cost legal services to help with your legal issues.
Advocates can also assist you with obtaining legal counsel, protective orders, housing, employment accommodations, name changes, access to public benefits, child custody and support, and provide help with other related issues. Learn more about Domestic Violence Protective Orders and child custody in West Virginia in these videos. Also helpful is this guide that includes information explaining how to change your name if you’re a West Virginia resident, in English, and Spanish.
Those who engage with survivors involved in the civil and criminal legal systems can better assist survivors when they understand and can explain the legal process and how our laws may impact survivors.