Advocates play a crucial role in helping victims re-claim their lives. Often an advocate is the first person you will come into contact with, and is there to assist you in exploring your options and understanding your rights. Below is a brief description of the advocacy services offered by the Advocacy Department.

COURT ADVOCATES:

Our advocates are available Monday - Friday in Family and District Court as well as Saturday and Sunday in the arraignment part of the District Court. The advocates provide:

• Support
• Information
• Assistance in obtaining Orders of Protection.

Additionally, our court advocates link you to other SCCADV services and additional supportive services outside the agency. Because our advocates are not attorneys, they cannot provide any type of legal advice. To speak with an advocate, please call our 24-hour hotline at 631-666-8833.

PRECINCT ADVOCATES:

SCCADV is the only Domestic Violence Agency in Suffolk County to have advocates working in all seven of the Suffolk County Police Department Precincts.

Precinct Advocates are there as a means of support during what can be a most difficult time. Advocates will:

• Explain what to expect if a police report is filed
• What options are available for obtaining Orders of Protection
• Assist in developing a safety plan
• Link clients with court advocacy services, shelter and community resources
• Available to meet with clients in hospitals, emergency rooms

Each night of the week there are at least two advocates in different precincts from 3-11pm. To speak with a precinct advocate, please call our 24-hour hotline at 631-666-8833. ALL INFORMATION DISCLOSED TO THE PRECINCT ADVOCATE IS KEPT CONFIDENTIAL AND NOT SHARED WITH THE POLICE.

LEGAL SERVICES:

SCCADV's Staff Attorney is available to represent victims of domestic violence in family court at no charge in the areas of:

• Custody
• Visitation
• Child support

Our attorney is both knowledgeable and sensitive to the issues facing victims of domestic violence and will represent our clients in a caring, compassionate manner. To inquire about our legal services, please call our 24-hour hotline at 631-666-8833.

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