Marjaree Mason Center provides a variety of services including legal advocacy, court accompaniment, education and other services to victims of domestic violence.

Advocacy

The Marjaree Mason Center legal advocates offer clients crisis intervention, support, education on the criminal justice system, safety planning and connects them with community resources. MMC victim advocates co-located at the Fresno Sheriff’s Office and the Fresno Police Department contact victims who have reported domestic violence to these agencies.

Legal Options

This class is free and open to the community. It is held every Thursday and begins promptly at 10am at MMC’s administration building in downtown Fresno. The first portion of the class is informational and provides an overview of various types of restraining orders, the criminal justice system, safety planning and services available. The second portion of the class walks clients through filling out a request for a Temporary Domestic Violence Restraining Order.

Court Appointment

The court process can be overwhelming for those seeking a restraining order. Victim Advocates attend restraining order hearings with clients. For many victims, their abusers control the purse strings and are able to obtain attorneys. Advocates create a more level playing field by keeping victims informed of their legal options.

Child Custody and Divorce

A legal document preparer on staff is available by appointment to assist with divorce and child custody papers.

Project First Step

For clients seeking restraining orders with more complicated legal issues, advocates may refer to a Project First Step attorney. Project First Step is a program where attorneys represent clients pro bono at their restraining order hearings. This service is provided in partnership with Central California Legal Services, Inc.

Reflections

"I have a safe place to be with my children and see life in a more positive way."