The first-of-its kind public-private program provides free legal assistance to victims of domestic violence during the restraining order process.  Created in 2008, the program was designed to address a significant gap in the way that DV victims are served during the restraining order process.  Specifically, because a restraining order is a civil document, Assistant District Attorneys are unable to represent domestic violence victims during that process. Many of those victims are unable to afford an attorney as, oftentimes, it is the abuser who controls the household finances. To address this problem, the Middlesex District Attorney’s office first partnered with Proskauer Rose and then Cooley Manion Jones to identify victims who need legal assistance and then assign a private attorney to provide representation free of charge.

These restraining order hearings are critical, as they not only work to assure that the abuser cannot come in contact with the victim, but also frequently address other important issues such as assuring continued child support, utility payments, and healthcare payments.

Six area law firms have joined the program: Rich May, P.C., Proskauer Rose, Cooley Manion Jones, Brody Hardoon Perkins Kesten, Weil Gotshal & Manges, and Melick Porter and Shea.

See DA Leone discuss the program on Fox25 News: http://middlesexda.com/news/videos.php