Our Frequently Asked Questions
| I am in an abusive relationship. How can I get help? |
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We recommend calling your nearest victim advocate's group. In an emergency, you can also call 911 or the number of your local police. The national number for victims of domestic violence is 1-800-799-SAFE. |
| Can you help me? |
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We are only licensed to practice law in Vermont. If you live in Vermont, you should contact your nearest victim's advocates group before calling us. The number of clients we represent is limited by the amount of time it takes to represent each client and our staff. When we cannot help someone calling our office, we will provide a referral to another agency that may be able to provide assistance. In many cases, we are able to give limited advice on the phone. |
| How does HJWT provide services? |
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All of our services are free to clients. We pay for our services through a combination of grants from private foundations and the federal government, as well as donations from individuals. If you would like to
support HJWT please click here. |
| Who does HJWT represent? |
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HJWT represents women and children who have been affected directly or indirectly by family violence. All of our clients would otherwise be unable to afford legal services. At this time, HJWT does not represent men. |
| My friend or family member is being abused. How can I help her? |
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Talk to your loved one about domestic violence and let her know that you are concerned about her. Tell her that there are
resources available to her.
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| What does the process look like? |
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Generally, clients are referred to us through
victim's advocate groups. Through a process of phone calls, home visits, motions, and possibly court hearings we are able to help women get out of their abusive situations.
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| Is it safe for you to go into your client's homes? |
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Yes, normally we do not meet clients in their homes until they have already received a temporary order of protection (Relief From Abuse). If there is any concern about the safety of a location, we arrange another way to meet with our clients. We work closely with law enforcement. |
| Why do you believe you have achieved a high success rating with your services? |
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When HJWT was created, its model was designed with the unique needs of the client in mind. Our goal is to do whatever is necessary to get our clients out of abusive relationships and to enable them to build new lives for themselves. This is a holistic, innovative model that assists rural victims. Rural women trying to escape domestic violence have many needs far beyond legal representation. |
Toll Free: 877-496-8100