You Deserve Safety. You Deserve Support. You Don't Have to Navigate the Legal System Alone.
Navigating the legal system after experiencing domestic violence can feel overwhelming. At Option House, Inc., our Legal Advocacy Program provides free, confidential, trauma-informed support to individuals seeking protection, information, and assistance navigating legal processes.
Our advocates help clients understand available resources, prepare necessary paperwork, and navigate important next steps while respecting each person's choices, experiences, and safety needs.
Support Through the Restraining Order Process
Our trained legal advocates assist individuals seeking domestic violence restraining orders through the California court system.
Services may include:
Understanding the DVRO application process and required court forms.
Assistance preparing and completing restraining order paperwork.
Organizing relevant incident information and supporting documentation.
Assistance submitting completed restraining order requests.
Explaining next steps after filing, including service of court documents.
Providing information about court hearings and follow-up requirements.
Safety planning and referrals to additional support services.
Our goal is to help you navigate the process with information, preparation, and compassionate support.
Exploring Legal Options for Firearm-Related Safety Concerns
Option House also provides information and assistance related to Gun Violence Restraining Orders.
A GVRO is a court order that can temporarily restrict a person from possessing, purchasing, or accessing firearms and ammunition when legal requirements are met.
Our advocates can help individuals understand the process, identify appropriate court resources, and navigate available filing assistance and referrals.
Eligibility and available assistance depend on the circumstances of each case.
You Don't Have to Go Alone
Attending court can be intimidating, especially when the proceedings involve someone who has caused harm.
Option House provides court accompaniment to help survivors feel supported while navigating legal proceedings.
Depending on staff availability and the nature of the proceeding, advocates may provide:
Emotional support before, during, and after court.
General information about court procedures.
Assistance preparing for the court experience.
Support navigating courthouse processes.
Referrals for additional legal or community resources.
Our advocates provide support and information but do not serve as attorneys or represent clients in court.
Support When Interacting With Law Enforcement
We recognize that reporting domestic violence or communicating with law enforcement can be a difficult experience.
Option House provides advocacy support to individuals navigating interactions with law enforcement.
Services may include:
Emotional support during eligible law enforcement interactions.
Information about reporting options and available resources.
Safety planning and discussion of immediate support needs.
Assistance understanding general next steps following a report.
Referrals to appropriate legal and community services.
You deserve to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect throughout the process.
Connecting You With Additional Support
Some legal concerns require assistance from a licensed attorney or another specialized service provider.
When appropriate, our advocates can help connect clients with resources for legal consultation, representation, victim services, and other community support.
Step 1: Connect With an Advocate
Contact Option House to discuss the type of legal advocacy assistance you are seeking.
Step 2: Discuss Your Needs and Options
An advocate will explain available services, discuss relevant next steps, and help identify additional resources that may be helpful.
Step 3: Receive Assistance
Depending on your needs and the services available, your advocate may assist with paperwork, court navigation, safety planning, or referrals.
Step 4: Plan Your Next Steps
Our team can help you understand important follow-up responsibilities, including service of restraining order paperwork, hearing preparation, and additional resources.
You don't have to figure everything out on your own.
Whether you are exploring a restraining order, preparing for court, or seeking information about available legal resources, Option House is here to help you understand your options.
Contact Option House
Office: (909) 383-1602
24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline: (909) 381-3471
Email: info@optionhouseinc.com
Location: 813 North D Street, Suite A, San Bernardino, CA
Request Legal Advocacy Assistance
Option House provides legal advocacy, information, paperwork assistance, and referrals. Our advocates are not acting as attorneys and do not provide legal representation or guarantee any particular court outcome. Eligibility, service availability, and court requirements may vary based on individual circumstances.