The Legal Services Commission’s Women’s Domestic Violence Court Assistance Service has been awarded the Law Society’s 2021 Justice Award in acknowledgement of its game-changing work.
The Commission said the specialist legal Service had assisted more than 1,500 South Australian victims of domestic violence over the past two years and the Award recognised this important work.
Attorney-General, Vickie Chapman who presented the Award, said the free and confidential Service had provided invaluable assistance to women who had experienced domestic violence.
“Navigating the justice system can be daunting for many, especially those who are vulnerable,” Ms Chapman said.
She said the Service provided women in need with expert legal advice, which in turn empowered and protected them.
“I was incredibly proud to present this prestigious Award to the Service and want to thank all those who work, day in, day out, to help guide and protect people who have experienced domestic violence,” she said.
Director of the Legal Services Commission, Gabrielle Canny said the Service, which had been run by the Commission since 2019, had been life changing for many women.
“Abuse can come in many forms, with abusers increasingly using technology to harass their victims,” Ms Canny said.
“This can involve threats, tracking devices, stalking and repeated calls or texts – sometimes hundreds in a day.
“The Women’s Domestic Violence Court Assistance Service helps those women apply for intervention orders or deal with residential tenancy issues arising from abusive relationships,” she said.
Further information on the Service can be accessed at this PS News link.
