To be considered for any of these programs, a prospective client must contact SMCFA by phone and complete an intake. Once an intake is completed, it is reviewed at the weekly Case Review meeting for possible representation. Everyone who does an intake, and leaves valid and updated contact information, will be contacted by either phone or mail. SMCFA is not responsible for inaccurate contact information left by prospective clients.
| Pro Bono Legal Program |
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Staff attorneys provide victims of domestic abuse with legal advice and representation at Protective Order hearings and other proceedings related to family law and family violence.
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| Advocacy Program |
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Advocates are available at the courts to assist individuals with filing for protection from abuse. Advocates also offer expertise in safety planning, follow-up during the period that Protective Orders are in effect, and information and referral to additional resources.
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| Moderate Income Program |
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Staff and local participating attorneys provide family law assistance to residents of Southern Maryland who do not qualify for free services but meet moderate income requirements established by the program. Consultation and representation in separation, divorce, custody and related matters is available. Fees are charged in quarter-hour increments and based on family size and income.
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| Case Management Program |
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A full-time Case Manager works closely with the client and the Legal Team to assess the client's specific needs and determine a highly-individualized Case Management Plan. This plan addresses issues ranging from safe, permanent housing to psychological interventions and is put into effect during the period a client has a Protective Order in place (typically 1 year). The goal is to create stability and independence for the client and their dependents. This program is funded by an Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant administered by the Maryland Governor's Office of Crime Control & Prevention.
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| Children's Psychological Services |
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SMCFA offers a Child Psychology Program to respond to the emotional and other difficulties faced by children living with the crisis of domestic violence. This confidential and free program offers parents the opportunity to help their children survive and even thrive despite the chaos and pain that are the hallmarks of the violent home. The Center works with therapists who specialize in working with children and are experienced in addressing the issue of domestic violence. These therapists provide psychological evaluation, short-term crisis counseling, longer-term therapy, and when required by the court, custody evaluation and testimony. This program is funded by the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant administered by the Maryland Governor's Office of Crime Control & Prevention.
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| Child Custody Representation Project |
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This project of the Maryland Legal Services Corporation is administered by SMCFA. It's goal is to match low-income clients with contested custody cases with independent attorneys in Southern Maryland. Prospective clients must meet income criteria according to MLSC guidelines, the case must be contested, and must involve one or more of the following issues:
- the child(ren) must be at risk for abuse or neglect by one of the child(ren)'s other parents or guardians
- the client is the primary and proper caretaker
- the client is being denied all visitation with the child(ren)
- the client has a final protective order against the opposing party.
If a client meets the requirements, and the case is accepted, SMCFA will contact a local participating attorney and the client. It is the client's responsibility to contact the attorney and arrange an initial meeting.
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