Domestic violence affects every member of a household, including the children. Studies show that child abuse occurs in 30-60% of family violence cases that involve families with children. Since 1994, the Children’s Law Center has provided legal representation, as appointed guardians ad litem, for children involved in civil protection order cases before the Denver County Court.

In 2010, Children’s Law Center staff, with significant help from 73 pro bono attorneys, made recommendations to the court on behalf of 567 child victims of domestic violence in the City and County of Denver.

Nationally recognized as a best practices model for services for child victims of domestic violence, the Children's Law Center Domestic Violence Program was honored in 1998, by the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges as “one of the most effective and innovative programs for children in the nation.”

Each child’s attorney performs an independent investigation and makes child-centered recommendations to the court. Through the program, children receive individualized, informed representation designed to promote both immediate safety and long-term stability.

WANTED: Attorneys who want to make a difference in a child's life. Click HERE for more information.

Volunteer attorneys can make a critical difference

Representing a child in the Domestic Violence Program requires approximately 20 hours of volunteer work over a two-week period. No prior courtroom experience is necessary. The Children’s Law Center trains all volunteer attorneys and provides ongoing support for child advocacy professionals.

Legal Advocate Responsibilities

• Review records
• Get to know the family by interviewing the parents, spending time with the child and observing child/parent interaction
• Identify witnesses
• Consult collateral contacts such as relatives and teachers
• Make recommendations in court based on investigation findings
• Follow-up with the family and recommend community support programs

Process

• Download the Volunteer Attorney Application. Mail or email the completed application to Tommie Evans, Domestic Violence Program Manager.
• Attend a one-day volunteer attorney training provided by Kara C. Martin, Domestic Violence Program Director.Attorneys may receive CLE credits for attending this training.
• Once appointed to a case, volunteer attorneys conduct an investigation, appear in court and make recommendations on behalf of the child(ren)

To sign up for the next volunteer attorney training, visit the events calendar.

Questions about becoming a volunteer attorney?
Want to host a volunteer attorney training at your law firm?

Contact:
Tommie Evans, Domestic Violence Program Manager 
Email: tevans@childlawcenter.org
Fax: 303-302-2890
Main. 303-692-1165