DoorwaysVA Blog

by Jamie Friedman, Court Advocacy Program Coordinator and Corinne Stuart, Court Advocacy Program Intern

After being attacked and beaten by her ex-boyfriend the night prior, Tina decided to seek legal protection from her ex-boyfriend to prevent him from hurting her again in the future. Sadly, Tina’s only remedy and legal recourse would be to call the police and have her partner arrested. But as we can all imagine, this is not always an ideal option. Under Virginia law, prior to July 1, 2011 Tina would not qualify to file for a Protective Order because her relationship did not meet Virginia’s definition of a “family or household member.”  Like many other survivors of dating violence, Tina would be turned away from the court system, still fearful as a result of her inability to access civil protection under the law.

Thankfully, as of July 1, 2011, recent legislation allows dating violence survivors, like Tina, to file for Protective Orders in General District Court.  Legislation has now changed to allow any person experiencing unwanted physical contact, including pushing, hitting, kicking or strangling, among other acts of violence, to file for civil protection in the General District Court, regardless of their relationship.  Additionally, any person receiving threats of unwanted physical contact will also be eligible to file in General District Court for a Protective Order.  This legislation is a much needed addition to the Civil Judicial System, particularly with the recent tragedy of Yeardley Love, a victim of dating violence, who was murdered in Charlottesville, Virginia by her boyfriend.

Not only does this new legislation expand access to civil protection for those in abusive dating relationships, but it also officially condemns abuse, in all situations, regardless of the relationship between the parties.  This is a large step in the right direction to ending all acts of violence and abuse in Virginia and on a national scale as well.

Doorways for Women and Families continues to serve all survivors of Intimate Partner Violence, offering resources to help survivors leave abusive partners and choose healthy relationships in moving forward. The Court Advocacy Program comprises one component of the support structure that Doorways provides for survivors of Intimate Partner Violence.  Court Advocates are available in the Arlington Courthouse to discuss eligibility for Protective Orders, complete Protective Order paperwork, provide court accompaniment, and offer safety planning and referrals to further community services.

Court Advocacy services are available by calling (703) 244-5165 or (571) 289-2439, or by walking in and speaking with a Court Advocate in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Intake Office located on the fourth floor in the Arlington Courthouse.