How to Get Free Domestic Violence Legal Advice
The process of prosecuting or defending a court case can be complicated. Cases of domestic violence can get even more complicated, as very powerful emotions are involved. The outcome of these cases can cripple an individual's life. Victims can be left vulnerable to future attacks. A wrongful conviction could force an innocent defendant to live the rest of her life under the stigma of domestic abuse. For this reason, you'll want to get some expert legal advice before embarking on a domestic violence case. In many instances, you'll be able to get this advice for free.
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Instructions
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Consult with the police for free legal advice. As you work your way through the process of reporting domestic violence and making an arrest, ask for tips on navigating the legal process. Police officers and crisis counselors can be good sources of information about your coming legal ordeal.
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Call attorneys in your area who specialize in domestic abuse cases. Many lawyers offer free consultations.
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Ask for advice from friends or family who may have dealt with similar abuse cases in the past. There might be someone in your immediate circle who has had to cope with domestic abuse at some point.
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Take advantage of the expert advice you can receive at your local women's shelter. These non-profit shelters provide accommodations, food, clothing and empowering information to women in your situation. The administrators at a women's shelter will likely be able to give you some detailed legal advice for free.
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Look for other domestic violence support resources in your city. The National Network to End Domestic Violence can help you get in touch with agencies in your area to help with legal advice (see Resources below).
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Get advice on defending against domestic violence charges from a non-profit group like Respecting Accuracy in Domestic Abuse Reporting (RADAR). There are many more resources available for prosecuting domestic abuse as opposed to those educating defendants (see Resources below).
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Tips & Warnings
While domestic violence can be perpetrated against men or women and heterosexual or homosexuals, the vast majority of cases involve straight women. Most legal websites offering free advice will therefore be geared towards straight women.
