What a Paralegal Can Learn About Domestic Abuse | Legal Studies

Paralegal studies for victim advocacy — Black and white image of a girl with her hand extended signaling to stop useful to campaign against violence, gender or sexual discrimination (image focused on her hands)

At Legal Studies, we make sure our students and clients receive a holistic learning experience of the justice system. Our curriculum is comprehensive and covers the unique aspects of all related matters. For example, we have the Victim Advocacy Certificate, a course that focuses on preparing you to work in victim advocacy arenas, such as domestic violence.

A recent report revealed the domestic abuse spikes during the holiday season. As a paralegal, it’s important you have sufficient knowledge on this issue, as well as with brand new ways of dealing with the problem.

But It Keeps Getting Worse

The past year witnessed major violence against cases involving women, including the contentious Rolling Stone article profiling a campus gang rape, the incident with an NFL player, and the “No More” PSAs that played during high-profile television events. The sad part is, these numbers aren’t new. And even sadder, it looks like it is getting worse this year.

As a paralegal, what can you do? We believe you can start by learning about the legal process, legislation regarding victims’ rights, ethics, effects of victimization on the victim, as well as assisting crime victims.

Here’s What You Can Do

In a culture of victim-blaming, it’s important we conscientiously work towards creating a solution and an environment for people with stressful histories that allow them better chances of growth and recovery. Restorative justice is one of these ways, as it allows the perpetrator to see perhaps for the first time, the victim as a real person with thoughts and feelings and a genuine emotional response.

This may be a more effective rehabilitative practice than simple incarceration. Although it might be traumatic for survivors, this strategy reinforces the strength of these women who have gotten up and lived through abuse every single day.

As with any other approach, there is no one-size-fits-all to this take. Learn more about victim advocacy here at Legal Studies.