Kim Hollenback, Managing Attorney of the Media Office of Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania, and VOCA Supervising Attorney, was featured on the July 1 edition of the Our Delaware Valley podcast from 93.3 WMMR. She spoke about the Victim of Crimes Act and the civil legal services for victims of domestic violence and other crimes her program offers.

You can listen to the episode using the player above or on 93.3 WMMR.

Attorney Hollenback discussed different types of abuse—physical, mental, and financial—and emphasized that abuse can occur between any partners, not just married couples. She reminded listeners that anyone in a relationship—whether dating, parental, or otherwise—can be a victim of abuse, regardless of age or gender.

Describing domestic violence as a public health issues, she talked about the relief her office can offer, including Protection from Abuse orders (restraining orders), child custody, divorce, landlord-tenant issues, and even expungements.  

Restrictions that the state of Pennsylvania places on victims were also discussed, including how domestic violence is narrowly defined as actual physical abuse, and how LASP is able to get protections and recourse for their clients.  

Legal Aid of Southeastern PA provides free legal services to low-income individuals and seniors throughout Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties.  Because the VOCA program is funded through the Victim of Crimes Act, the service does not have income requirements, and they are permitted to assist non-citizens as well.  

Other funding for LASP and its programming was discussed, and Attorney Hollenback reminded listeners that Legal Aid delivers up to a $12 return on every dollar invested in it; she encourages direct donations to keep them secure.

For more information visit lasp.org/domestic-violence.