Legal Services

At The Second Step, we understand the unique and intersecting legal needs that survivors of domestic violence have, often feeling overwhelmed as they try to navigate a complex web of intersecting legal challenges on their own. We know that these legal challenges frequently extend far beyond the initial abuse. Each client’s circumstance is deeply personal and can include several different legal intricacies within separate proceedings and systems, such as: abuse prevention orders, family law cases, criminal issues, and housing matters. The Second Step’s team of dedicated staff attorneys offers free legal services throughout Massachusetts to eligible survivors whose legal issues stem from or are directly caused by domestic violence. We encourage all survivors of intimate partner domestic violence in need of legal services to contact our intake line so that we can evaluate your legal needs and determine how we might assist you.

An image of a woman proudly looking into the middle distance
“I do not know what I would have done over the last couple of months if it wasn’t for you and TSS. I was lost, scared and desperate to get out of a horrible situation, which seemed like an impossible feat at the time. Being believed and supported through this dark time means more than you can possibly imagine.”

Legal Services include:

  • Representation in court at Abuse Prevention Order hearings
  • Representation for custody, parenting time, and divorce proceedings
  • Advice to people representing themselves in abuse prevention orders and family matters
  • Consultations and referrals for immigration matters
  • Representation in housing court

Survivors of intimate partner domestic violence may be eligible for legal services if they meet our income limit requirements and if their legal issue is derived from or caused by domestic violence.

If you are in need of legal support, please reach out to our intake line at: 617-965-2538 or email legal@thesecondstep.org.

Speak with an advocate today.

Call us at 617-965-2538

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