In addition, LAAW specializes in providing free legal representation at Order of Protection hearings for low income victims of abuse. LAAW serves St. Louis City and the Counties of St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Warren, and Washington. In 2000, LAAW s goal is to serve a total of 5,300 victims of abuse. LAAW s unique partnership with the City of St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and with the St. Louis City Civil Courts has enabled LAAW to serve more victims and provide multi-level services.
Domestic violence has immediate and long-term detrimental effects on children.
Each year, an estimated 3.3 million children are exposed to violence by family members against their mothers or female caretakers. Women who are victims of domestic abuse often do not have strong support in the family and in the community. Often, victims are given misinformation or have been sent back to an abuser. Without proper information and training in family violence, many caring professionals and family members might further endanger, not help, the battered woman and her children. LAAW s attorneys, staff and volunteers are specially trained in managing family violence crises on the crisis line, at the scene of a domestic dispute, and in the courtroom.