What is legal advocacy?

Navigating the legal system can be challenging; many survivors appreciate having an advocate who can help support them emotionally, explain the legal system, and answer questions.

SASS Advocates can support survivors as they navigate both the criminal and civil legal systems, including helping survivors:

  • obtain protective orders
  • navigate legal issues related to housing, workplace, education, and more
  • connect to local partners for help accessing legal representation

SASS Advocates are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice or opinion. SASS can connect survivors with attorneys who may be able to provide those services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of legal services can SASS help with? 

SASS Advocates can support survivors to access legal representation for a variety of needs, such as protective orders and housing issues. However, SASS and our partner attorneys do not offer support for criminal defense, torts, estates, etc. If you are confused about what kind of support we can offer, please call our 24/7 Crisis & Support Line: 541-343-7277 or 844-404-7700.

Does SASS have lawyers on staff?

No. SASS does not employ any attorneys and Advocates cannot provide legal advice or opinion. Instead, we can connect survivors with attorneys who may be able to provide legal representation pro bono (free of charge). 

What legal partners does SASS work with?

SASS works with Oregon Law Center/Legal Aid (OLC) and the Domestic Violence Clinic (DVC) at the University of Oregon.

If you are interested in reaching out to Oregon Law Center/Legal Aid (OLC), click here or call them at: (541) 485-1017. 

If you are interested in reaching out to the Civil Justice Clinic (aka Domestic Violence Clinic or DVC), click here or call them at: (541) 346-8555.

For DVC’s online intake form, click here. 

How do I contact SASS about accompaniment? 

Please call our business line at (541) 484-9791 to speak with an advocate about scheduling court accompaniment. Our business line is operational M-F from 9am-5pm. Please leave a voicemail if you are calling outside of business hours. We recommend contacting us at least one week in advance for court accompaniment.

Reminder: SASS advocates are not attorneys, cannot give legal advice, and cannot represent you in court. A SASS advocate’s role is to provide emotional support to you during the process, support your choices, and offer resources.