Haven

Live Without Fear

  • A gavel rests on a bench. Learn about legal advocacy at HAVEN.

Court Advocacy at HAVEN

Advocates provide support and education for victims moving through the legal system, as well as immediate crisis intervention and emotional support for victims and their families after an assault. Advocates at HAVEN provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental atmosphere for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault to begin to rebuild trust, to develop a sense of security, and to reduce feelings of isolation and self-blame. Advocates assist victims with their concerns in a confidential manner without interfering with the medical, reporting, investigative or court processes.

All advocacy services are confidential and free of charge. This program is supported by VOCA (Victims of Crime Act).

Who are Court Advocates?
What do they do?
Who are “First Responders”?
How do I contact an advocate?

Who are Court Advocates?

Court Advocates at HAVEN work with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault to educate them on their legal options. Advocates are not attorneys and cannot give legal advice.

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What do they do?

Advocates can provide emotional support and safety planning to help a victim through a legal process. They can also help victims connect to community resources that might assist with employment, financial and housing needs.

Court advocates can also provide feedback to legal personnel on the dynamics of domestic and sexual violence — the goal is to enhance the legal system’s response to victims involved in the system. Advocates are available during special group offerings that focus on legal questions and options, such as “what to know about divorce.”

Court Advocates are also available to assist survivors navigating the Family Court System. Advocates are also available to provide expert witness testimony for prosecutors. There is a fee for this service to cover time and travel costs.

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Who are “First Responders”?

Court Advocates also function as “First Responders” by going to Oakland County hospitals and police departments when a victim has been recently assaulted. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to attend to the victim’s need for support. They provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and education on legal and support options.

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How do I contact an advocate?

If you need help or would like more information about the Advocacy program, call our Crisis and Support Line at 248-334-1274, or chat with us online.

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