A Safe Place – provides advocacy and crisis intervention for victims of domestic abuse. Advocates provide a listening ear, provide information on domestic abuse and basic legal information; accompany clients to court, help resolve financial, housing and other issues. Advocates may order free taxis for victims who need to get to the Family Justice Center or court and do not have alternative transportation. A Safe Place advocates are the first stop for most victims who visit or call the FJC. They conduct an initial intake, help the victim identify her needs, and then make the appropriate legal and other referrals.
SASS – provides support and advocacy for victims of sexual assault. Advocates will accompany adult and child victims to the hospital, child advocacy centers or to court. Advocates meet privately with victims to provide support and guidance. SASS conducts support groups and makes referrals to other resources.
New Hampshire Legal Assistance -NHLA provides representation for victims who meet income guidelines on most issues related to domestic abuse, including restraining orders, divorce and custody. Referrals must be made through an advocate of A Safe Place, who will screen the issues and schedule with the appropriate legal provider. Victims who come to the Family Justice Center may also be eligible for assistance with housing, social security benefits or other non-dv issues.
Law Enforcement – Various law enforcement agencies are available on site or by phone. On site police departments who come at least once a month are Rochester, Dover, Somersworth, Durham, Strafford County Sherriff's office; Strafford County Attorney's Office Investigator; New Hampshire State Police. When a client signs a consent form with a provider or attorney, that party may speak to the police directly about the client's case, or the client may meet privately with an officer.
New Hampshire Pro Bono Attorneys - Pro bono attorneys are part of the New Hampshire Bar Association's Unbundled Services and can provide limited legal help to clients. This assistance can consist of general legal information and advice; help with completing forms, assistance drafting motions or other filings.
Rochester Child Care - RCC is at the FJC from 11-2 on Wednesdays. Rochester Child Care staff will watch children while they meet with staff or work with other providers in the building. All children's first names, ages and date of service must be entered on the log by the child care room. If a child cannot be calmed or becomes too challenging or disruptive to care for, the parent must take the child and reschedule their appointment if necessary.
