Ending an abusive relationship often requires litigation and that is where we can help.
Legal Aid of Western Michigan (LAWM) represents survivors of domestic abuse in divorce litigation. Sometimes this means filing a Complaint for Divorce to start divorce proceedings. Other times this means filing an Answer to a Complaint for Divorce filed by the other party. When LAWM represents a client in a divorce, we provide full representation – appearing in court, handling discovery and drafting documents.
LAWM also represents survivors of domestic abuse in defending custody of their minor children. Sometimes this occurs within a divorce case. Other times, when the parties are not married, this litigation may occur within a paternity, custody or child support case.
Our clients often seek Personal Protection Orders from the Court to prevent further abuse from their former partners. If their Personal Protection Order is challenged in court, LAWM is often able to go to court with our client to defend the order and keep it in place.
As a grant-funded nonprofit, LAWM clients must meet our income and asset guidelines. Those interested in applying for LAWM's services can contact us to be screened for eligibility.