Advocacy services for survivors of intimate partner violence: Pivots and lessons learned during the COVID‐19 quarantine in Tacoma, Washington. (6th March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moyer, Rachel A.; Beck, Connie J.; Van Atter, Nadia; McLane, Abi
• Is Part Of: Family court review. Volume 60:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 288
• Page End: 302
• Publication Date: 2022-03-06
• Subjects: advocacy services -- COVID‐19 -- domestic violence -- family justice center -- intimate partner violence -- protection orders; Domestic relations courts -- United States -- Periodicals; 346.7301505
• DOI: 10.1111/fcre.12642
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1531-2445

Abstract

Abstract: The Crystal Judson Family Justice Center (CJFJC), like many advocacy programs for survivors of intimate partner violence, transformed its structure and operating procedures amid the COVID‐19 pandemic. The first confirmed case of COVID‐19 in the United States was in Washington State, where CJFJC is located, and Governor Jay Inslee acted quickly with a strict stay‐at‐home order. This paper describes the pre‐pandemic, in‐person service model used at CJFJC and then the transition to a fully online service model utilizing phone, email and online procedures and platforms. The rapid transition posed many opportunities to learn how to provide services during public pandemics, and how to provide services virtually. We conclude with detailed lessons learned from the experiences of filing domestic violence protection orders online, Zoom court hearings, innovation surrounding community partnerships, and information technology development. Key points for the family court community: During the COVID‐19 pandemic, one Family Justice Center quickly pivoted from in‐person service delivery to virtual service delivery. Challenges included quickly obtaining laptop computers, necessary software, training staff to provide services virtually, and coordinating with the courts and community partners. These challenges were met through close cooperation with the courts and community partners. The experience taught the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center staff that there are advantages to virtual advocacy service delivery: advocates now have the knowledge/hardware/software necessary to work from home when needed; survivors who live in rural areas, who do not have transportation, childcare and/or other limitations to attending in‐person service delivery can learn of available advocacy services, obtain orders of protection, and attend court hearings virtually. However, there are also disadvantages to virtual advocacy service delivery: some survivors do not have the knowledge necessary to access the Internet, social media, do not have private computers or cell phones to access advocacy or court services. Survivors may need access and assistance to learn to use these electronic platforms. Particularly during the pandemic, financial support is essential including providing cell phones and data plans, as these can assist survivors' access to virtual advocacy services and court hearings. Providing service information in grocery stores and other public places can assist survivors in learning of services in their communities. In‐person contact for this Family Justice Center remains necessary for those survivors who cannot access virtual services and who need emergency household goods, food, etc. Advocates can also provide in‐person, trauma‐informed care in assisting survivors in completing paperwork for same day orders of protection, developing safety plans, and providing community outreach and emotional support by attending court hearings with survivors.