Legal Advocacy

Apna Ghar’s legal advocates are dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic violence by providing education on domestic violence and information on their rights and options under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA). Anyone who is being abused by an intimate partner, family or household member, is protected under the IDVA and can seek protection by calling the police and by getting a court order that prohibits further abuse.

The advocates assist survivors of domestic violence with safety planning and explain to them what to expect if law enforcement responds to an emergency 911 call. They can further assist clients with filing police reports and obtaining orders of protection, both civil and criminal.

The advocates assist survivors who press criminal charges against their abusers by working with the State’s Attorney’s office and with the Victim Witness Assistance Programs.

Apna Ghar’s legal advocates can also explain family law procedures including divorce, child support, custody and visitation and assist survivors with getting legal representation for these cases.

The advocates can explain what immigration remedies are available to survivors of domestic violence under the Violence Against Women Act.

The advocates assist survivors in retaining attorneys to represent them in their civil and immigration cases, by providing appropriate referrals and helping with the intake process at legal aid agencies or with pro bono attorneys.

The legal advocates provide accompaniment to court and to attorney appointments in order to ensure that the survivor’s needs are met.

The legal advocates help survivors in understanding the various legal procedures that they may be involved in and provide translation services as needed, with attorneys and in court.

Apna Ghar’s legal advocates also provide trainings to law enforcement and legal aid agencies and to private attorneys on the needs of battered immigrant women.

For more information please call our office at 773 334 0173 x 231 and ask to speak to a legal advocate