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Legal Advocacy

Detective Richard “Mac” McLaughlin presents a new digital camera to attorney Kelly Carson, MWH legal advocate. Documentation by photography is an important and powerful tool in the investigation, prosecution and, in some cases, prevention of recurring domestic violence crimes. Photographing injuries to the skin and other areas are key to the prosecutor’s case against the abuser. Digital photographs can be sent directly to the prosecutor’s office

Middle Way House’s legal advocacy office in Bloomington is staffed by two legal advocates, one with a paralegal degree and one, fluent in Spanish, with a law degree. Legal advocates are available in the Bloomington office from 8 am-6 pm on weekdays. Advocates also are available 20 hours a week in Spencer, Owen County, 40 hours a week in Greene County (in Bloomfield and Jasonville) and 40 hours weekly in Loogootee, Martin County. Advocates assist persons over the phone and in person with issues and questions relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, child abuse and other crimes. Advocates can describe legal processes and discuss available options; assist clients in filling out divorce petitions, motions to assist, and protective orders; explain how custody and visitation considerations can be incorporated into various court-approved actions; and make county-specific referrals to pro bono and reduced fee programs, private attorneys, therapists and other resources. Advocates will help clients who are eligible for victim compensation to pursue that relief. Advocates are able to accompany victims to case-related appointments to provide emotional support. Legal Advocacy Program volunteers monitor court hearings; their presence provides opportunities to link unaccompanied victims of abuse to Middle Way House services and the records they keep on the proceedings provide feedback to judges and prosecutors.

Legal advocates participate in domestic violence task forces in their communities (DVTF) and sexual assault task forces or Sexual Assault Response Teams (SART). Legal advocates coordinate services with the Indiana University Protective Order Project, which provides volunteer attorneys for persons seeking protective orders.