VICTIM ADVOCACY
The Center for Abused Persons works alongside law enforcement and the judicial system to provide essential support for the most vulnerable individuals in our community, helping them stay safe.
How We Advocate
Let Us Advocate for You.
Protective Orders
People who have faced intimate partner or sexual assault can pursue courtforced protections against their abusers. To initiate this process, the victim submits a "petition" their complaint, details of the abuse, and the relief they are seeking. This may involve evicting the ab from a shared living space, prohibiting them from entering the victim's home or workplace, and limiting contact either entirely or partially (e.g., only through email or concerning children). If the judge approves the petition, a protective order will be issued. CAP is here to assist you in securing an order, guiding you through your petition, accompanying you to hearings.
Fill out a protective order petition by clicking here,
and download this brochure for additional information on filing protective orders.
Court Accompaniment
Court can be a daunting environment for anyone, but it can be particularly challenging for those facing their abusers in cases of intimate partner or sexual violence. Our advocates are available to discuss what to anticipate during protective order and criminal hearings, provide comfort and reassurance about your court appearance, accompany you at the courthouse, and be a supportive presence during your testimony.
Hospital Accompaniment
CAP's advocates are always on hand to provide hospital support following cases of intimate partner violence or sexual assault. In this process, counselors collaborate with forensic nurse examiners and police officers to offer a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and legal aspects of interpersonal trauma.
To learn more about what to expect during a forensic exam, please visit our Sexual Assault page.
Lethality Assessment Program (LAP)
The Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) is a two-step screening process designed to connect the most vulnerable members of our community with critical support services. In the first phase, law enforcement officers respond to incidents of intimate partner violence and administer an eleven-question assessment to determine the victim’s risk for serious or potentially fatal assault. If the individual is identified as "high-risk," the officer proceeds to the second phase by contacting the CAP crisis hotline. The victim then has the opportunity to speak with a trained staff member, review safety planning options, and schedule a counseling appointment. CAP also provides follow-up support through a phone call. In addition to law enforcement and CAP, the Charles County Department of Social Services and the Emergency and Labor & Delivery Departments at the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center actively participate in the LAP initiative.
Fatality Review Team
CAP is involved in a Fatality Review Team as part of a statewide effort aimed at decreasing fatalities linked to intimate partner violence. This focuses on enhancing communication among key agencies such as law enforcement, court systems, and victim advocates, while also strengthening services for victims.