Are you confused about your
legal options and rights? The Legal Advocate
can help you learn about:
- What to do if your partner has been charged (or not) with domestic
violence
- How to apply for Legal Aid
- How to find a family, immigration, or housing lawyer
- How to apply for a restraining order
- Your rights concerning:
- Custody and access
- Spousal and child support
- Division of property
- Exclusive possessor order
The Legal Advocate program is a no-fee service that
serves Interval House women residents and non-residents who have experienced
violence and abuse.
The Legal Advocate offers:
- Information (concerning criminal, family, and immigration law, Legal
Aid, Duty Counsel, DVERS program)
- Support
- Court accompaniment
- Referrals (to lawyers and other community services)
- Advocacy
Duty Counsel
Once a week, a lawyer with some training in abuse issues is available
at one of the Hamilton shelters, the Women’s Centre, or the Francophone
Community Health Centre for a free consultation regarding family law.
DVERS (Domestic Violence Emergency Response Service)
A woman with a DVERS alarm is treated by the police as a "priority" requiring
immediate attention. When women are leaving the shelter and the potential
for physical violence is extremely high, the Legal Advocate can apply
for DVERS from Victim Services of the Hamilton Police Department on her
behalf.
If you wish to contact the Legal
Advocate,
please call:
905-387-9959 ext. 223 |