Understanding Civil Restraining Orders: Domestic Violence, Extreme Risk Protection Orders, and More

Trainers: Julia Weber, JD, MSW, and ret. Judge Sherrill Ellsworth

This 2-hour virtual training will take place on September 27th at 1pm CT/2pm ET

Virtual Training Description

Legal services attorneys play a critical role in decreasing risk for clients struggling with family law conflicts, child custody disputes, domestic violence, threats of suicide, workplace violence concerns, and stalking situations. While current state law varies nationally, federal law and policy in this area plays an important role and both state and local policies help shape options for legal advocates and their clients. Attendees will learn from two experts in the field - an attorney and a retired judge - about both state and federal law and efforts around promising practices in this area, including differences between Domestic Violence civil (and criminal) approaches to reducing risk and Extreme Risk Protection Orders (so-called "red flag laws"). Challenges with implementation and concrete steps attorneys can take to bring forward client concerns, respond to questions state court judges may have, and provide access to the most protective and effective remedies will be covered. Additionally, faculty will cover current research around firearm ownership, gun violence (including the connection between various types of violence) and issues raised by the 5th circuit case (U.S. vs. Rahimi) currently before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Learning Objectives

Improved understanding of federal and state laws around domestic violence and firearms: prohibitions, relinquishment, and enforcement

Improved understanding of ERPO policies, opportunities to utilize ERPOs in DV matters and why not to/limitations.

Familiarity with the current landscape around firearm risks and harm reduction approaches informed by updated research.

Concrete tools to use in their work with clients.

Knowledge about the current policy discussions and ways to help clients navigate involvement with law enforcement and civil proceedings involving firearm risks.

WATCH THE WEBINAR RECORDING HERE

This project was supported by Grant No. 15JOVW-21-GK-02232-MUMU awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this program are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

*OVW approved