Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice (LACLJ)

Laclj provides free legal representation and community advocacy services to low-income survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Our holistic, community-based services not only help to address survivors' legal battles, but also connects families to the resources they need to build self-sufficiency and create more hopeful futures.

As a leader in our field, laclj is at the forefront of several initiatives focused on better serving survivors. Laclj is continuing its work as a lead partner for a sargent shriver civil counsel act project, which provides free legal services to low-income families in high-conflict custody disputes, a large percentage involving domestic violence. Laclj has also continued to expand its efforts to serve survivors of human trafficking, lead partnerships to improve access to Justice for survivors in rural areas, and also lead a collaborative for mental health, disabilities and legal services agencies to promote cross-collaboration and seamless, trauma-informed services for survivors. Finally, laclj has expanded its legal advocacy and representation in housing-related matters to prevent survivor homelessness and further traumatization for them and their children.

In fy22-23, laclj served 1,033 survivors (a 4% increase from the previous year). Laclj achieved 102 successful restraining orders, 112 positive custody orders and 116 work permits. In addition, clients reported their life had been improved because of laclj's services: 90% reported feeling less fear, 94% more confidence, 93% more hopeful, and 92% reported having a better relationship with their kids.