What is the protection order advocacy?
The Protection Order Advocacy Program is staffed by Protection Order Advocates who are employees of the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Protection Order Advocates provide free assistance to protection order petitioners.
The mission of the Protection Order Advocacy Program is to assist King County residents who are experiencing domestic violence by a current or former intimate partner or a family member as they navigate the domestic violence protection order process. We are only able to provide support to people who are being abused, not an abuser.
We recognize that domestic violence occurs in a variety of relationships, some familial, some intimate and may look different based on the relationship. We have experience working with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences and encourage anyone who is experiencing abuse to seek our services. We are a welcoming and affirming program.
Accommodations for those who are hearing impaired or require special assistance are available. Please contact us for more information on how we can best assist you. Interpreter services are also available for limited English proficient clients.
How can Protection Order Advocates help me?
Protection Order Advocates can:
- Answer questions about DV protection orders
- Explain the process of getting a DV protection order
- Help you determine whether you are eligible for a DV protection order
- Assist you in completing the DV protection order forms
- Prepare you for your protection order court hearings
- Stand with you during your full order hearing
- Explore options for serving protection orders
- Provide emotional support throughout the process
- Provide information about domestic violence, sexual abuse, and stalking
- Assist you with developing a safety plan
- Help troubleshoot problems and answer questions you may have about your order
- Help you identify lethality factors that may increase your risk
- Refer you to domestic violence and social service resources in the community
Do all courts in Washington have a Protection Order Advocacy Program?
No. King County is the only county in Washington that offers this unique service. If you live outside of King County, are a victim of domestic violence, and are thinking about filing for a protection order, a community-based domestic violence program may be able to help you. Contact the Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-562-6025 or http://www.dshs.wa.gov/pdf/Publications/22-787.pdf for contact information for a domestic violence program near you.