Fighting for Justice for Victims of Intimate Partner Violence

The mission of SLSLS is to provide zealous advocacy and meaningful access to justice for victims of intimate partner violence and their children, and to educate the St. Louis community about the legal process and resources for those seeking protection. SLSLS helps victims get effective legal relief in the form of thorough and enforceable Orders of Protection and other companion orders.

Our mission at SLSLS

In the US, more than 33% of women have experienced intimate partner violence.  In St. Louis City and County, only 10% of people seeking orders of protection have lawyers.

Our work is possible because of the dedication and commitment of both our attorney and non-attorney volunteers. By joining us, you become a beacon of hope, empowering survivors.

Volunteer

Your generosity makes a lasting impact on those affected by intimate partner violence. We rely on contributions to expand our services and extend a helping hand to even more victims.

Donate

Get Help

We provide a comprehensive support system, guidance through the process, and connect you with a dedicated attorney to represent you at no cost.

Our services include connecting with victims of intimate partner violence before they would typically seek help on their own, educating community organizations, consulting and accompanying victims during the order of protection process, preparing and providing free legal representation for their court hearings, and helping hold offenders accountable. All victim services are free and confidential.

What We Do

Survivor Stories

  • "I was at my court hearing alone, feeling defeated and depressed until SLSLS offered their legal services and support free of charge. They were there every step of the way to help me to get back into my house and obtain a 4-year order of protection from my abuser! They have even kept in contact with me weeks later to make sure my children and I are okay and to offer resources."

  • “SLSLS was a breath of fresh air for me in a very dark time.”

  • “I was afraid, up until I met my lawyer. I was in a financially and physically abusive relationship and was ignorant as to what an order of protection even was. SLSLS gave me the knowledge and courage to finally standup to my abuser.”

  • “I was unaware of how necessary it actually was to have an attorney. I am so thankful for SLSLS because they went above and beyond to hear my story and to help me get my safety back.”

  • “I am very grateful for the help from SLSLS’s volunteer attorneys. They were both so very supportive, respectful, and great at their jobs. Thank you so much for all the help.”

  • “Within a short time of being referred to SLSLS, I had an attorney calling me to let me know he was there to represent me. A huge thank you to him for helping me get through one of the hardest things I’ve ever done: freeing myself from my abuser and standing up for myself.”

  • “I felt like I was rescued by the amazing representation during one of the scariest times in my life! I finally felt protected, safe, and seen by receiving this gift of peace of mind.”

  • “SLSLS was very kind and helpful at taking my information and matching me with not 1, but 2 attorneys who were both kind, smart, and supportive through 2 court dates with a winning outcome. I definitely recommend SLSLS to anyone who is a victim in need of services.”

  • “I am so grateful for the support and services of SLSLS. My attorney’s sincerity while handling my case gave me a great sense of relief and courage to overcome the anxiety and fear of facing my abuser to extend my order of protection. I appreciate such professionalism and grit!”

  • “When I reached out, I was scared and worried and exhausted by the behavior of my ex-spouse but I was also overwhelmed by the idea of trying to deal with the courts and the order of protection process on my own. You were so kind and helpful from our first telephone call. You helped me find the courage to take the next step to protect myself. You also kept checking in on me throughout the process. Additionally, the volunteer attorney who represented me was incredibly empathetic and understanding. Facing an abuser in court is scary. Having a skilled, compassionate attorney with me throughout the process made it feel less overwhelming. I am so grateful for the SLSLS program and the wonderful professionals that volunteer their time to help people like me.”