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Advocates provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere for victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault to begin to rebuild trust, a sense of security and to reduce feelings of isolation and self blame. They assist victims with their concerns in a confidential manner without interfering with the medical, reporting, investigative or court process.

Advocates are available by pager 24 hours a day, 7days a week to provide support immediately after an assault at any Oakland County hospital (or START center) or police station. If a friend or family member accompanies the victim, a second advocate will attend to their need for support and provide information about how to be supportive of the victim. When paged an advocate can contact the victim immediately by phone as well. Victims receive crisis intervention and compassionate emotional support during this traumatic time. Advocates provide a link to services in the tri-county area such as counseling, shelter, legal services, crisis lines, and financial resources to expand the victim's range of options and their sense of control. Advocates are trained to assess the danger and help victims develop an individualized safety plan. Information is provided about the medical procedures, evidence collections and criminal justice process as well as about crime victim's rights. Financial assistance through the Crime Victims Fund is explained and the application process is facilitated.

Advocates are assigned to specific district courts in Oakland County in order to offer the most effective and informed assistance to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The advocacy staff not only accompanies victims to criminal proceedings but also helps them obtain a Personal Protection Order. Advocates assist at any violation or Show Cause Hearing on these matters. They can accompany victims to the Circuit Court proceedings. Advocates respond to referrals from all county police departments, from prosecutors, city attorneys, and directly from the victims.

All Advocacy services are confidential and free of charge.

Select another program from the list below:

• 24-Hour Crisis & Support Line
• Counseling Program
• Support Groups
• Intervention in Battering (IIB)
• Residential Shelter
• Supervised Parenting Time Program
• Advocacy Program
• START (Safe Therapeutic Assault Response Team
• Community Education & Prevention
• Intern & Volunteer Program
• PPO Office

You can help! Lend your time, talent and financial support to HAVEN. Together we will put an end to domestic violence and sexual assault.