Safe+Sound Somerset

Legal Advocates are trained volunteers who assist survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault at the Somerset County Courthouse. Legal Advocates help survivors navigate the restraining order process. Legal Advocates are critical in: - providing trauma-informed emotional support to survivors in the courthouse setting, - guiding survivors through the restraining order process, - offering information about the court process and legal options to survivors, - sharing information about safety planning and counseling services, - providing education about community resources, as appropriate, and - advocating for the survivor during the legal process. Legal Advocates are required to sign up for a minimum of two Thursday shifts per month from 8:30am-12:00pm, during which they must be available to support survivors at the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville, NJ. Additionally, Legal Advocates are required to attend meetings and/or virtual training sessions. Sign up for this project today to learn more about becoming a Legal Advocate! REQUIREMENTS FOR VOLUNTEERING 1. Background Check: Satisfactory result required upon volunteering and every 3 years 2. Completion of mandatory 60-hour training in Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault 3. Valid driver’s license 4. Ability to uphold client confidentiality 5. One year pledge to meet shift sign-up and training requirements