|
Findings The Legal Network uses Efforts to Outcome (ETO) to manage data collection. When a TRO is filed or a client comes in seeking other legal services related to domestic violence, ETO makes a record of it. This instantaneous collection of data ensures that all our statistics are extremely accurate. We record the number of TRO requests filed each month, the number that are granted, and the number which result in permanent orders. We also track the provision of legal services by partner agencies working with the Legal Network including the YWCA, Center for Community Solutions, and the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer’s Program. Demographic data on the population we serve is also collected. Additionally, data is collected to measure the efficacy with which victims are served, such as the time that each client waits for assistance. Victims are also asked to take surveys, providing them with the opportunity to give feedback to the Legal Network and thereby improving the services offered. The surveys gather statistical data to assess satisfaction, increased perceptions of safety and empowerment, interest in future assistance, and areas of improvement, but they also provide a “free response” section, where clients can record their questions, concerns, and successes directly. Results of the TRO Study • Reviewed outcomes from 297 Clients (July through Dec 2009) - All data was recorded in ETO - Analyzed what clients requested in the restraining order application to what clients received at the hearing • Conducted phone surveys with 70 Clients - Interviews were conducted by survivors and Brenda Lugo assisted with Spanish-speaking Clients Findings from Surveys • Clients requested more support in the TRO Process in filling out forms (46%), court preparation (62%) and debriefing after the hearing (50%). • Clients expressed a strong interest and need for court support (78%); more risk assessment and safety planning (29%) and additional legal assistance (32%). • Clients said they did not understand what was happening in court (57%). Results from Client Case Files • 78% of the ex parte orders were granted but only 55% of those clients obtained a permanent order. • 36% of the clients voluntarily dropped the protective order at the hearing (no court advocate present). • 23% dropped the order because the abuser’s opposition and/or lack of evidence. • 61% of cases had corroborating evidence, 81% of those cases included photos of injuries • Only 4% of all abusers were ordered to a 52-week counseling program • 8% of cases were continued • Nearly 30% of the clients wanted to pursue a divorce. Clients need additional assistance with: • Collecting the evidence • Court preparation and support • Obtaining additional services for themselves and children • Court representation at the OSC hearing • Legal representation for child custody, child support, paternity, divorce and/or immigration matters. |
| SAFETY ALERT: Please use a computer at a safe location. There is always a computer trail. If you are in danger, call 911, San Diego Domestic Violence Hotline (888) DV-LINKS / (888) 385-4657 or the U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233 • TTY (800) 787-3224. Click the Escape button to leave this site quickly. |  |
|
Do I qualify for a TRO? In order to qualify for a Domestic Violence TRO, you must have one item in each of the following three categories: 1. Relationship to the person you want restrained MUST be: q Spouse or former spouse q Person with whom you share(d) a living space (intimate partner) q Have or had a dating relationship q Have a child in common Note – If you currently have an attorney for a family matter, we cannot meet with you.
2. The person you wish to have restrained must ALSO have committed one of the following acts: q Recent physical violence q Recent threats of physical violence q Harassment q Recent sexual assault or molestation q Stalking q Severe verbal abuse
3. The Legal Network will assist you in identifying corroborating evidence. Examples of evidence are as follows: q Photos of injuries or damaged property q Medical records q Police reports q Reports from Child Welfare Services q Voicemail or Text Messages (excessive or threatening) q Declarations from Witnesses (must be signed under penalty of perjury) q Prior TRO or restraining order Violations
|