Developing a plan specifically for court can help a woman feel safer both physically and psychologically.
Before the court date
- Prepare emotionally to see the abuser.
- Visit the court ahead of time so the woman knows what it will look like and who the court officials are. This is also a good time to find out if there is a private room where she can sit away from the abuser and their family/friends.
- Know in advance whether the abuser has a lawyer or will be questioning her themself.
- Have support on the day of court — an advocate, a family member or a friend.
- Have a plan to get help if she is confronted by the abuser.
- Make safe transportation arrangements. If the woman is driving, she should make sure the parking area is safe both when she arrives and when she leaves court. If possible, she should drive with someone else so the abuser does not recognize the car.
On the court date
- Carry a cell phone, if possible.
- Bring along something to pass the time in the waiting area (a book, magazine or music).
- Arrive early to avoid seeing the abuser outside the court.
- Make sure everyone knows about her safety concerns.
- Be aware of the court security staff and/or sheriff’s office, so she can find help quickly if she needs it. She may want to check in with them when she arrives. If she has a protection or restraining order or there are bail conditions or peace bonds in effect, she should show a copy of the order to court security/sheriff.
After the court appearance
- Stay behind after court until the abuser has left.
- Ask court security/sheriff to walk her to her car.