In January of 2002, Alexandra House
began the Order for Protection (OFP) Project, which provides free
legal representation to victims of domestic violence in Anoka County
seeking Orders for Protection and Harassment
Restraining Orders. Orders for Protection are court orders designed
to protect victims of domestic violence from their abusers.
People are referred to the OFP Project
from a variety of sources, including family court, law enforcement
personnel, county social
services, victim witness and others. Those involved with the
OFP Project are able to work with an attorney, who helps guide
them
through the process. Additionally, Alexandra House advocates
assist in preparing the them for court, accompany them to hearings,
and
work closely with the OFP Project attorney at every stage of
the process.
The OFP Project Attorney also conducts “Family Law Information
Sessions” on the second Tuesday of each month. These sessions
are designed to educate victims of domestic violence on protection
orders, child support, divorce, custody, paternity and visitation.
