A Unique Approach to Domestic Violence Programming
ALSO’s Domestic Violence Legal Services Project provides free civil legal help to survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. We offer legal advice, court representation, and advocacy rooted in safety and dignity. Our team supports survivors in pursuing orders of protection, resolving family law matters, addressing housing and privacy concerns, and navigating other legal needs connected to their experience of harm.
Legal remedies and assistance to survivors through this project can include the following, if connected to or arising from Domestic Violence:
- Protection orders and other court cases
Family issues like divorce, child custody, and parental rights - Housing and employment problems
- Immigration and education matters
- Healthcare and privacy rights
- Restorative justice or alternative conflict resolution options
ALSO supports survivors by…
ALSO’s newly launched Legal Services Project has begun providing critical legal help to survivors in a community with few legal resources—offering respectful, survivor-centered support where it’s needed most, and bridging a long-standing gap in access.
By offering free, culturally responsive legal support on the West Side and Northwest Side of Chicago, the project aims to:
Increase safety and protection
for survivors through legal tools like protection orders and custody arrangements.
Empower survivors
by helping them navigate complex legal systems and assert their rights.
Improve access to justice
in communities that often face barriers to legal help.
Strengthen community trust
Break cycles of violence
by supporting survivor autonomy.
Are You Experiencing Violence in Your Relationship and Want Help Accessing Support?
Step 1: Get Connected with ALSO
If you are a current ALSO Participant, speak with your case manager to get a referral directly to the project. If you are a member of the community, call the DV support services intake number (773) 245-1406 and let us know you are interested in legal services.
Step 2: Complete an Intake
Once we receive your request for services, a member of our project staff will get back to you within 48 hours to conduct an initial intake.
Step 3: Meet with Our Attorney
After you have completed an intake and upon acceptance of your case, you will meet with our attorney to discuss legal remedies and options.
“Everyone deserves access to justice and safety — no matter their situation. My work is about meeting survivors where they are, helping them navigate complex systems with clarity and support, and making sure they feel seen, heard, and treated with dignity every step of the way.”
Myasar Ihmud, Staff Attorney
Client voices matter. As our project grows, we look forward to sharing stories from survivors who have found safety and support through our legal services.
