What is CVLAP's Tribal Survivor Project?
CVLAP's Tribal Survivor Project provides free civil legal assistance in family court cases to individuals who are affiliated with a Tribe and who have experienced domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault. Being "affiliated" with a Tribe means being enrolled (or eligible to enroll), having an enrolled child (or one who is eligible to be enrolled), or identifying as Native American even if the criterial for enrollment are not met. You do not have to report a crime or contact law enforcement to receive our help. Our goal is to provide culturally honoring, trauma informed legal assistance to Native American clients with family court needs.
What type of civil (i.e. non-criminal) legal assistance do we provide?
Our attorneys provide free legal help, ranging from providing advice to full representation in Court, in family court (both State and Tribal Courts), including the following:
- Divorce
- Seperate Maintenance
- Custody & Parenting
- Personal Protection Orders
- Extreme Risk Protection Orders
- Spousal Support/Alimony
- Child Support
- Enforcement of Family Court Orders
Who is eligible for free legal assistance?
If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, please contact us for legal help:
- Has anyone hurt you by hitting, choking, kicking, biting, pulling, or restraining you?
- Has anyone intimidated or threatened to hurt you or someone you love, including a child or pet?
- Has anyone controled who you see, what you say, what you wear, or what you do?
- Has anyone called or texted repeatedly, followed you, or otherwise harassed you?
- Have you been touched in a sexual way that felt assaultive?
- Has anyone pressured or forced you to have sex or interfered with your use of contraception?
- Has anyone insulted, name-called, belittled, or shamed you?
- Has anyone controled your access to money?
We serve clients regardless of:
- The language(s) you speak
- Your immigration status (we help people with and without papers)
- Your sex, sexual orientation or gender identity
- Your criminal history
- Your income
- Your age
- Your race, color, national origin, or ethnicity
- Your religion
- Whether you have a disability
- Your marital status
- Whether you have reported the abuse to police or others.
How do I apply for free legal assistance?
If you, or someone who know, would like our services please contact us to request assistance.
What should I do if there is an emergency?
If you are concerned about your safety or about the safety of someone you know, please contact 911.