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Advocates have long witnessed the struggles of domestic violence victims as they attempt to secure a life free of violence. We have seen victims challenged by a lack of adequate financial resources, poor housing or employment history. We have seen victims unable to secure a restraining order. Victims with children encounter a legal system that may require mediation, order a visitation or custody arrangement, which compromises their safety. According to the American Judges Foundation on Domestic Violence and the Courtroom, "Studies show that batterers have been able to convince authorities that the victim (the mother) is unfit or undeserving of sole custody in approximately 70% of challenged cases." Even though Wisconsin statutes provide that the presence of domestic violence is cause for not awarding joint custody, it is rarely invoked.
The WCADV Legal Project was developed in order to help victims address these and other obstacles and today, the project is able to report an impressive record of success. During 1997, legal training was provided to more than 1,500 advocates and 700 attorneys and court personnel. Legal technical assistance calls increased 246% from 1994 to 1997. Customized training and materials on domestic violence in later life, among people who have developmental disabilities and ethnic/racial minority communities focus on the legal needs of these under-represented populations.
Today, training and technical assistance continues at record levels. We have an immigration attorney on staff, domestic violence courses being taught at both Wisconsin Law Schools and a legal Externship program.
Despite our many successful components, the WCADV Legal Project struggles to meet the legal representation needs of victims and to absorb the volume of technical assistance needs of legal professionals and legal advocates throughout the state.