Sexting, Revenge Porn and Cyber-bullying
The use of technology in domestic abuse is an emerging trend, with phones, tablets, computers, social networking websites and the “internet of things” all available to control and manipulate victims. Effective legal responses must be developed to address these new challenges. How can the community best represent survivors, both in and out of the courtroom?
On Tuesday, April 23, our next Continuing Legal Education program will explore the role of technology in cases involving domestic abuse. The event is hosted by The John Marshall Law School.
This is a free event and open to all. Attorneys who attend will receive 2 CLE hours professional responsibility credit (pending). Register TODAY
Thank you to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers for their generous support of this program.
Searching for Freedom
“My husband yelled, harassed and always followed me around the house. He wouldn’t leave me alone. I was truly afraid that he would hit me or push me down. One afternoon he locked me in the bedroom with him; I couldn’t escape. He finally left the house and hasn’t come back, but I am terrified of what will happen when he does.”
No longer feeling safe at home and not knowing what to do, Ann* reached out to SHALVA for help. After safety planning with her therapist she went to court for an emergency order of protection (OP). Ann completed the forms, explained what happened to her and why the court should give her the order. The judge ruled against Ann and refused to grant the OP. She is now working with her SHALVA therapist and the staff attorney to figure out what to do next.
SHALVA’s Annual Luncheon on June 19 will highlight what can happen in OP cases and freedom from domestic violence as a basic human right. Look for your invitation in the mail soon!
*Name has been changed for confidentiality.
A Passover Prayer to Honor Survivors
More Jews participate in a Passover Seder than any other ritual or custom in the Jewish faith. As we gather together to celebrate the holiday and tell its story of slavery and freedom, we should also remember the women who have experienced domestic abuse and are wishing for freedom. One in four women (and one in seven men) will experience intimate partner abuse in their lifetime, so as you look around your table, it is likely that one or more of the people there have or will experience a form of domestic abuse.
Join us in reciting the following prayer at your Seder. As the prayer states, we embrace survivors and reaffirm our commitment to make all women safe in their homes and in their relationships.
