Practical guides for domestic violence survivors navigating California's legal system. Free resources, legal rights, and how to get help.
A domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) can remove your abuser from your home, require them to stay away, and protect your children. Here's exactly how to file one in California — from choosing the right form to what happens at the hearing.
Read article →Marsy's Law (California Proposition 9, 2008) gave crime victims constitutional rights that prosecutors and courts must honor. Here's what those rights are, how to use them, and what to do when they're ignored.
Read article →A practical guide to finding free or pro bono domestic violence attorneys in California, including legal aid organizations, law school clinics, contingency-fee representation, and how to qualify.
Read article →A civil harassment restraining order protects you from someone who is not your partner or household member — a neighbor, coworker, stranger, or acquaintance who has threatened or stalked you. Here's how to file one in California.
Read article →Los Angeles County handles more domestic violence restraining order filings than any other county in California. This guide covers every LA courthouse that accepts DVRO filings, the exact process from emergency protective orders through permanent restraining order hearings, and where to find free legal help.
Read article →As a crime victim in Santa Clara County, you have powerful constitutional protections under Marsy's Law. This guide explains your 17 rights, how to exercise them at the Hall of Justice in San Jose, and where to find free legal help — from the DA's Victim Services Unit to legal aid organizations.
Read article →San Diego County has one of the most active domestic violence court systems in California. This guide covers the San Diego Central Courthouse DV intake process, how EPOs work with SDPD and Sheriff, and where to find free legal help across all San Diego communities.
Read article →Alameda County serves a diverse population across Oakland, Berkeley, Fremont, Hayward, and Pleasanton. This guide covers the Rene Davidson Courthouse filing process, how EPOs work with Oakland PD and AC Sheriff, and free DV legal resources across every city in the county.
Read article →San Francisco handles a high volume of crime victim cases, from domestic violence to hate crimes to sexual assault. This guide covers your Marsy's Law rights, the Hall of Justice filing process, the DA's Victim Services Unit, and free legal resources throughout San Francisco.
Read article →Marsy's Law grants Alameda County crime victims 17 enforceable constitutional rights — from court notification to restitution. This guide covers your Marsy's Law protections, how to file a DVRO at the Rene Davidson Courthouse, how to report violations, and connection to contingency-based victim rights attorneys.
Read article →Marsy's Law grants Los Angeles County crime victims 17 enforceable constitutional rights — from court notification to restitution. This guide covers your Marsy's Law protections, how to report violations, and the LA restraining order process.
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