Program areas at LACLJ
Laclj provides free legal representation and case management services to low-income survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Our holistic, community-based services not only help to address survivors' legal battles, but also connects families to the resources they need to build self-sufficiency and create more hopeful futures.
As a leader in our field, laclj is at the forefront of several initiatives focused on better serving survivors. Notably, in 2011, laclj was selected as a lead partner for a sargent shriver civil counsel act project. One of only seven projects statewide, this initiative provides free legal services to low-income families in high-conflict custody disputes, a large percentage involving domestic violence. Most recently, laclj has expanded efforts to serve survivors of human trafficking, led partnerships to improve access to Justice for survivors in rural areas, and was selected to lead a collaborative for mental health, disabilities and legal services agencies to promote cross-collaboration and seamless, trauma-informed services for survivors. Finally, laclj has expanded its legal advocacy and representation in housing-related matters to prevent survivor homelessness and further traumatization for them and their children.
In fy21-22, laclj served 932 clients (a 6% increase from the previous year), of which 232 were new clients. Laclj achieved 54 successful restraining orders, 165 positive custody orders, 120 immigration filings, and over 230 other immigration and family Law legal outcomes for survivors. In addition, 89% of clients reported their life had been improved because of laclj's services. 83% reported feeling less fear, 87% more confidence, 85% more hopeful, and 84% reported having a better relationship with their kids.