Legal Center

Legal Center

Leaving an abusive relationship can feel overwhelming—especially when you have to navigate the legal system alone. Women Against Abuse’s Legal Center is here to guide and support survivors every step of the way, helping them access life-saving protections and regain safety.

Every year, the Legal Center assists thousands of men and women in Philadelphia, empowering them on their journey to a safer future.

Looking for free legal aid for domestic violence?

We are here for you! Contact the Women Against Abuse Legal Center at 215-686-7082

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What We Offer:

Free Attorney Representation: Our attorneys help survivors secure Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders, as well as child custody and support, ensuring their voices are heard in court.

Court Advocacy: Court advocates provide guidance, safety planning, and support, helping survivors navigate a complex system with confidence and care.

Telephone Outreach Program: Connects survivors with legal guidance over the phone, making support accessible even before entering the courthouse.

Fast-Track Attorney Program: Provides expedited legal help for high-risk survivors, ensuring urgent cases are prioritized and handled quickly.

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Lucia’s Story

Lucia* came to the Women Against Abuse emergency shelter pregnant and with five children.

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Candace's Story

When people consider domestic violence (DV), they often think of the adult victim/survivor. But what about the children who have seen or experienced the abuse; the boys, girls and young adults who have been afraid in their own home? Candace, who worked as a therapist at Women Against Abuse, witnessed her mother being abused for many years, is choosing to share her story to shine a light on this little told aspect of DV. These are her words.

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La historia de Candace

Al pensar en la violencia doméstica, a menudo se piensa en una víctima/sobreviviente adulta. Pero ¿qué sucede con los niños, las niñas y las personas jóvenes adultas que han experimentado abuso o han sentido miedo en sus propios hogares? Candace, quien trabajó como terapeuta en Women Against Abuse, fue testigo de cómo abusaban a su madre durante años y elige contar su historia sobre este aspecto de la violencia doméstica del que poco se habla. A continuación, sus palabras.

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La Historia de Dineth

Probablemente tenía 8 o 9 años la primera vez que fuimos a un refugio de Women Against Abuse, a mediados de la década de los ochenta. Era en [el oeste de Philadelphia], porque mi mamá estaba en una situación de violencia doméstica y necesitábamos encontrar un lugar seguro en el que vivir.

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La Historia de Tamika

Tenía 23 años, era madre soltera y estaba embarazada de mi segunda hija. Mi prometido tenía problemas con el consumo de alcohol y recibí muchos golpes y moretones hasta que nació nuestra hija. Me di cuenta de que si no me iba, mis hijas no me verían como una persona fuerte.

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Jamie's Story

Jamie shared her story at the 2019 iPledge Campaign press conference.

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Kathleen’s Story

For years, Kathleen's* life was defined by her husband's moods, needs and whims.

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Megan's Story

I’ll never forget that moment when the judge asked, “Did he hit you?” I was standing in the courtroom, our 4-month old son sleeping in the baby carrier strapped to my chest. I didn’t know what to say. Everything else – the years of insults, the screaming in my face, the violence, the gaslighting, the drug abuse – was being overlooked. Just because you’ve never been hit, doesn’t mean you aren’t being abused.

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Khadijah's Story

It was young love, and it felt exciting. Looking back, there were red flags early on, but I didn’t see them at the time.

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If you or someone you know needs help, call our toll-free 24-hour Hotline:

1.866.723.3014

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