Legal Advocacy InternAt — Laura's House

Interns will support legal advocates in assisting clients with all phases of a domestic violence restraining order, including assessment, court accompaniment during a domestic violence restraining order hearing at the Lamoreaux Justice Center (Orange, CA) or the Central Justice Center (Santa Ana, CA) and supportive services such as evidence preparation. 

Tasks:

The student will partake in the following duties:
1. Complete client registration and assessment of needs.
2. Assist clients in navigating through various systems including social service, civil justice, criminal justice and law enforcement.
3. Provide comprehensive safety planning for self and clients.
4. Provide support in data entry, document preparation, and administrative services.

Training:

Student interns will receive a general orientation about the agency as well as training about court documentation regarding to domestic violence restraining order. Interns are also eligible to attend Laura's House 40-hour Domestic Violence Advocacy Training and receive certification that is required to work directly with survivors of domestic violence in California. 

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the academic internship, the student will be able to:
1. Collaborate with and on behalf of victims within the civil legal system.
2. Determine potential clients' program eligibility and access to their legal needs.
3. Learn and practice intervention and guidance techniques to assist clients in times of crisis.
4. Effectively communicate and collaborate with colleagues.