LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Helping keep you safe and protect your legal rights.

Starting at the point of crisis through your journey to independence from interpersonal violence you’ve experienced, CVIC’s staff attorney and state-certified advocates are here for you, helping navigate the steps necessary to help keep you safe and protect your legal rights. All services are free and confidential.

Request legal assistance by filling out this form or call 701-746-0405 to contact CVIC’s Senior Director of Legal Services or reach out through our 24/7 crisis line, 701-746-8900.

For more information, you can also visit the North Dakota Legal Self Help Center. https://www.ndcourts.gov/legal-self-help

Services

Protective Order Applications

CVIC may assist you in applying for emergency protective orders. We can help you address key points necessary to help strengthen your application and support you through the emotional process.

Domestic Violence Protection Order: If you have recently been a victim of domestic violence you may request a protection order, which is typically sought when someone has been physically harmed by their partner, including sexual assault. For this type of order, actual or imminent domestic violence is required. These orders do not have a specific time limit they can be granted for, however, typically orders are granted for 1-2 years. For more information, including how to file, please contact CVIC or visit: https://www.ndcourts.gov/legal-self-help/domestic-violence-protection-order.

Sexual Assault Restraining Order: If you have been sexually assaulted by an acquaintance or a stranger, this protective order may be appropriate. This type of order cannot be granted for more than 2 years and is intended for sexual assault cases where there is not a significant relationship with the offender. For more information, including how to file, please contact CVIC or visit: https://www.ndcourts.gov/legal-self-help/sexual-assault-restraining-order.

Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order: If you have experienced stalking, harassment, or other types of disorderly conduct, this protective order may be appropriate. In North Dakota, disorderly conduct is defined as intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures intended to adversely affect the safety, security, or privacy of another person. This can include threats, screaming, yelling, etc. This type of order cannot be granted for more than 2 years. For more information, including how to file, please contact CVIC or visit: https://www.ndcourts.gov/legal-self-help/disorderly-conduct-restraining-order.

Please note: We will respond to your request within 2 business days. If you need immediate assistance with a protective order, please contact our office or call our 24-hour crisis line at 701-746-8900.

Representation, Protective Order Hearings

Our staff attorney may be able to represent you at civil court hearings to request an extended order.

Representation/Advice, Civil Matters

  • Divorce
  • Custody
  • Housing discrimination due to domestic violence or sexual assault
  • Employment discrimination because of your victimization

Title IX Concerns

If you are a university student or otherwise affiliated with a college campus and are assaulted there are additional steps to navigate. Our attorney and trained advocates can be by your side to ensure you are informed and your rights are being addressed every step of the way.

Additional Resources

This program is supported by grant number 2015-WL-AX-0041 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions and recommendations expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.