Safe+Sound Somerset’s Legal Advocates have been meeting with survivors of domestic abuse/violence on-site at the Somerset County courthouse on Thursdays to provide support and information about the Temporary and Final Restraining Order process and what can be expected the day of Domestic Violence Court. Legal Advocates also provide individualized safety planning and education about the dynamics of domestic abuse to empower survivors to make informed decisions to keep themselves and their families safe.
Based on how well this arrangement has worked for survivors of domestic abuse, Safe+Sound Somerset was granted permission from the Superior Court of New Jersey, Family Division Somerset County to further expand on-site hours beginning January 2019. Legal Advocates are now available at the courthouse Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., to allow us to accept immediate referrals and to assist survivors who have questions about the TRO process. On weekends, holidays and weekdays after 3:30 p.m. and all other times when the Superior Court is closed, survivors may file a domestic violence complaint at the local police department.
In the first 18 months, Safe+Sound Somerset served 583 people in the courthouse, 106 of those Spanish speaking. Legal Advocates provided over 1,000 individual services, including extensive dismissal counseling to 255 plaintiffs electing to dismiss a TRO or FRO. Expanded on-site availability will increase our capacity and ensure that more individuals impacted by domestic abuse have access to support, education and resources at the location and time they are needed.
For help or to request additional information about Safe+Sound Somerset’s services, call or text our 24/7 confidential helpline at 866-685-1122. Services are provided free of charge, in a confidential and culturally sensitive environment.
For more information contact 908-359-0003, ext. 201, or kcantwell@safe-sound.org, or visit safe-sound.org.
