Victim’s Advocate

Overview

Law enforcement based advocates provide immediate crisis intervention to victims of violent crimes and others who are going through traumatic situations. Having advocates on duty and on-call around the clock to respond to crime scenes has proven to be one of the most valuable resources to victims. The victim advocate responds immediately to assist victims/survivors of crime with crisis services, which often make the difference between their emotional well-being in the aftermath of tragedy.

Law enforcement based victim's advocates deal with all types of traumatic situations ranging from domestic violence to homicide and many other cases, which are not criminal. Examples would be suicides, accidental deaths, and missing persons. These families receive no services from other advocates since no crime is involved; however, they are still traumatized and need assistance.

Toni will be happy to answer any questions you may have about our program.

Filing for an Order of Protection in Family Court

Before you begin with the application process you may want to visit South Carolina Legal Services website to learn more about Orders of Protections. On their website, you will find Self-Help Forms in many languages.

You can apply for an Order of Protection if:

  • You are married to the abuser.
  • You were formerly married to the abuser.
  • You have children with the abuser.
  • You and the abuser dated and lived together.
  • You are applying for a child in your household who was abused.

If you still have questions concerning who can apply, please contact your local Family Court.

Download these documents in order to apply for an order of protection:

  1. Order of Protection Packet (PDF)
  2. Important Phone Numbers (PDF)
  3. SC Legal Services Order of Protection Manual (PDF)

Filing for a Restraining Order in Magistrate's Court

Before you begin with the application process you may want to visit the South Carolina Legal Services website to learn more about Orders of Protections. On their website you will find Self-Help Forms in many languages.

You can apply for a Restraining Order in the following ways:

  • At the Magistrate's Court in the county where the defendant lives.
  • The county where the harassment or stalking is taking place.
  • If the defendant is not a resident of South Carolina, you can apply in the county where you live.

If you still have questions concerning who can apply, please contact your local Magistrate's Court.

Download these documents in order to apply for an order of protection. You can also find the following forms at sccourts.org.

  1. Restraining Order Packet (PDF)
  2. Important Phone Numbers (PDF)
  3. Guide to Restraining Orders (PDF)