Domestic Violence and Legal Process Support

Domestic violence cases carry a heavy legal and emotional weight, and that weight is even heavier when you are going through the process in a language that is not your own. Hispana offers a safe space and practical guidance for anyone moving through this system, whether you are seeking protection or responding to accusations. We help people understand protective orders and court steps, help you find a victim advocate who can go with you to court, and connect you with the resources you need to move forward.

Please note: Hispana does not provide legal advice and is not a law firm. When you need a lawyer, we help you find one.

Who we help

• People seeking protection. If someone has hurt you, threatened you, or made you feel unsafe at home, we help you understand your options and the steps to ask for protection.
• People responding to accusations. If you have been served with an order or are facing charges, we help you understand the papers, the court dates, and what the process asks of you.
• Family members. If someone you love is going through this, we help you understand how to support them.

We treat everyone with respect and privacy. We do not judge, and we do not take sides in your case.

How we help

• We explain the process in plain words. We help you understand what a protective order is, what the court papers say, and what happens at each step.
• We help you understand your papers and dates. We help you read notices, keep track of court dates, and know what you need to bring.
• We help you prepare for court. We help you organize your documents, write down what happened in order, and prepare your questions. We help you find a victim advocate who can go with you to court.
• We connect you with the right help. We help you find shelters, counseling, interpreters, victim advocates, and qualified lawyers.
• We help you plan for safety and stability. We help you think through next steps for housing, work, and your children.

What to bring and what to expect

If it is safe to do so, please bring:

• A photo ID.
• Any court papers, orders, or police reports you have.
• Any letters or notices with dates on them.
• Notes, messages, or photos related to your case, if you have them.
• A list of your questions.

What to expect: We will meet with you privately, in English or Spanish, and listen without judgment. We will help you understand where you are in the process and what comes next. What you share with us stays private, except where the law requires us to report a risk to someone's safety. Our help is free. We never promise how a case will end.