Status of Increased Access to Family Court

Day One was thrilled when statewide efforts yielded new access to legal protection for young victims of domestic violence last year.  Since New York State law opened Family Court to individuals seeking protective orders against dating partners in July 2008, the courts have seen a 15% increase in filings.  Court personnel are facing an influx of young survivors, a population previously unserved by Family Court.  In response, Day One is pleased to be partnering with the Office of Court Administration to educate judges and court staff about the dynamics of relationship abuse among youth.

Until access to Family Court was expanded, a teenager seeking protection from a violent boyfriend or girlfriend was restricted to the relief available in Criminal Court.  Now, as young petitioners approach the courts in domestic violence proceedings, court personnel are seeking out resources to assist youth with appropriate services.  Day One continues to field requests to train attorneys and other professional court staff about the needs of young victims of domestic violence.  Day One has been asked by the New York State Office of Court Administration to provide our expertise in Spring trainings for judges, referees and court attorneys in the downstate region.