Legal Center

Legal Center

Leaving an abusive relationship can feel overwhelming—especially when you have to navigate the legal system alone. Women Against Abuse’s Legal Center is here to guide and support survivors every step of the way, helping them access life-saving protections and regain safety.

Every year, the Legal Center assists thousands of men and women in Philadelphia, empowering them on their journey to a safer future.

Looking for free legal aid for domestic violence?

We are here for you! Contact the Women Against Abuse Legal Center at 215-686-7082

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What We Offer:

Free Attorney Representation: Our attorneys help survivors secure Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders, as well as child custody and support, ensuring their voices are heard in court.

Court Advocacy: Court advocates provide guidance, safety planning, and support, helping survivors navigate a complex system with confidence and care.

Telephone Outreach Program: Connects survivors with legal guidance over the phone, making support accessible even before entering the courthouse.

Fast-Track Attorney Program: Provides expedited legal help for high-risk survivors, ensuring urgent cases are prioritized and handled quickly.

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La Historia de Dineth

Probablemente tenía 8 o 9 años la primera vez que fuimos a un refugio de Women Against Abuse, a mediados de la década de los ochenta. Era en [el oeste de Philadelphia], porque mi mamá estaba en una situación de violencia doméstica y necesitábamos encontrar un lugar seguro en el que vivir.

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Georgina O’Hara’s Story

Pro bono representation provided by local law firms makes a meaningful difference for the thousands of clients seeking help at our Legal Center.

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Catherine’s Story

When I first met my abuser, I was just 14 years old and he was 20. I thought I was in love, so I ignored the disapproval of my mom and sister.

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William’s Story

William Spratley flicks through the text messages on his phone until he finds the one he’s been looking for. It’s from his 27-year old daughter, Ameya, and it’s the last words he will ever exchange with her.

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Natalie's New Beginning

Entering the Women Against Abuse safe haven – really leaving for good – was the culmination of 10 years of relationship abuse; more arguments, threats and sleepless nights than Natalie* could count. They had children together, shared a life together, depended on each other financially. It wasn’t easy to break things off.

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Un nuevo comienzo para Natalie

Ingresar al albergue seguro de Women Against Abuse, realmente irse para siempre, fue la culminación de 10 años de abuso en la relación; más discusiones, amenazas y noches sin dormir de las que Natalie* podría contar. Tenían hijos en común, compartían la vida y dependían del otro económicamente. No era fácil ponerle un fin a la relación.

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Shakeda's Story

I was 5 years old when my mom got a new job as a manager at a local KFC. She met a gentleman there who was a suave, smooth kind of guy, rode a bike, didn’t care about authority, and was the opposite of my father. My mom fell hard for him.

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Amy's Story

“This is not OK; this is not who I will be; I will love my children; violence will not be allowed in my home.”

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Chanda's Story

Chanda is a survivor and advocate for Women Against Abuse. She first shared her story at the 2017 iPledge Campaign press conference.

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Jamie's Story

Jamie shared her story at the 2019 iPledge Campaign press conference.

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If you or someone you know needs help, call our toll-free 24-hour Hotline:

1.866.723.3014

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