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The DVC Legal Department assists victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in a number of ways. DVC attorneys and legal staff work with clients who have been abused by an intimate partner, became a victim of sexual assault, or stalking.

Legal staff is available by phone or appointment:
Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Please call 410-997-0304 for more information.

Most of DVC’s legal services are free and can include:

Information and referrals to appropriate resources in the community
Assistance with the completion of a Petition for Protective Order or a Petition for a Peace Order
Volunteer Legal Court Advocates available at the District Court of Howard County daily to provide information and referrals to victims filing Petitions for Protection
Safety planning (Sample Safety Plan)
Representation in Temporary and/or Final Protective Order in the District Court and Circuit Court of Howard County or certain Peace Order hearings
Assistance with and representation in modification proceedings to change the terms of a Final Protective Order or Peace Order
Assistance with and representation (where appropriate) in contempt or other proceedings to enforce a Final Protective Order or Peace Order
Assistance with and representation in appeals from Final Protection Order or Peace Order hearings held in the District Court for Howard County
Accompaniment to the Commissioner’s Office or the State’s Attorney’s Office to file criminal charges
Accompaniment in criminal proceedings and assistance through the criminal process
Divorce, custody and child support consultations*
Referrals to other legal services providers, pro bono attorneys and attorneys willing to accept reduced fees for family law or criminal law matters

*On a very limited basis, the DVC may provide direct representation in family law matters. Those services may be free or the DVC may charge clients based on a sliding scale.

Find DVC On
Domestic Violence Center
- DVC Joins with Community Partners on New Services June 28, 2010
  The DVC is proud to announce that starting July 1, 2010, the Center will begin providing sexual assault and child abuse services in partnership with Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center and The Family Tree. New services that the DVC will provide include a separate 24-hour sexual assault helpline, counseling for victims of child abuse, and [...] […]
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- Announcement from the DVC June 1, 2010
  The Domestic Violence Center of Howard County would like to announce the resignation of Executive Director Jodi Finkelstein. Ms. Finkelstein has dedicated 6-years of service to the Howard County community and the mission of the DVC, and will be with the Center until September 30, 2010. The Board of Directors has established a Transition Committee [...] […]
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- Verizon Foundation Supports DVC May 14, 2010
  The Verizon Foundation has granted the Domestic Violence Center of Howard County (DVC) $23,000 to provide staff support for the DVC Residential Department. “The DVC is truly thankful and appreciative of all the support Verizon has given us over the years,” said Jodi Finkelstein, DVC executive director. “Without the company we would not be able to [...] […]
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- Make Mother’s Day Extra Special April 21, 2010
  There was a point in my life where I had reached rock bottom, I felt worthless and a complete failure as a person, mother, and wife: I was empty. While at the DVC Safehouse my small son reminded me there was hope by telling me, “Mommy, I love you. It will be alright.” With support [...] […]
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- DVC Keeps the Funds Rolling… April 5, 2010
  With the support of the 2010 Hope Bowlers, sponsors, donors, DVC staff and Board of Directors, more than $32,000 was raised at the 4th annual Hope Bowl! The generosity of these individuals not only helped raise funds for client services, but brought light to the issue of domestic violence and the DVC services. Throughout the night [...] […]
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- DVC Spotlight: Helpline Volunteers March 13, 2010
  The DVC offers many programs and services that make a difference in individuals lives who are experiencing abuse. One of these services is our 24-hour Helpline. The 24-hour Helpline is staffed by volunteers who give their time and talents to offer resources and assistance to callers reaching out for services. Our helpline could not function without [...] […]
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- Dating Violence Prevention Month February 4, 2010
  According to national statistics, 1 in 3 teens will be in an abusive relationship. February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, and you can support this important month by learning more about our teen services or even schedule a presentation to teach teens ways to recognize a potentially abusive relationship. Learn more about National [.. […]
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- 2010 Hope Bowl February 4, 2010
  Help the DVC “Strike Out” Domestic Violence! Join the DVC for our 4th Annual Hope Bowl! March 27, 2010 Columbia Brunswick Lanes 7-9 pm Gather your friends, family, and co-workers for a fun-filled night of bowling and raising funds for the DVC! Learn more about the Hope Bowl! […]
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