Snohomish County's Legal and Domestic Violence Assistance

Going through a legal matter or difficult personal situation can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure where to turn for help. The good thing is, you are not alone. There are several organizations and programs available to Snohomish County residents that may provide support, legal guidance, financial assistance, advocacy, and other valuable resources. Whether you're looking for help with a family law matter, domestic violence support, housing assistance, or simply need information about your options, the resources below are a great place to start.

1. Apply for the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services

DSHS Services - Food stamps, child care, cash assistance, emergency programs, housing assistance, assistance for needy families, child support, etc.

2. CLEAR Hotline | Northwest Justice Project (nwjustice.org)

Call early, as soon as the lines open. It can be difficult to get through, but keep trying. If possible, it is best to be alone to avoid distraction when they ask about your current situation during the intake call. If the caller is eligible and resides in Snohomish County, they will receive a referral to access attorneys at Snohomish County Legal Services for no charge.

• Snohomish County Legal Services holds Lawyers in the Libraries and walk-up clinics on certain days each month, and you can find that information on the Snohomish County Legal Services Facebook page. Registration may or may not be required.

3. Free Virtual Support Group by Northwest Family Life

These weekly groups are supportive and educational, run by trauma-informed women. If you are new to the support groups, they recommend you start with Dynamics of Power & Control. This 8-week course covers ways to safety plan, the cycles of violence, subtle tactics of abuse, reasons why people stay in abusive relationships, how trauma affects people, and guidelines to healthy relationships. The Dynamics of Power & Control course is designed to offer insight and support for women who have experienced abusive relationships.

4. New Beginnings - 1-on-1 Domestic Violence Advocate

This service can be a valuable source of support during tough times. Reach out and ask to be connected to an advocate. They have legal advocates and clinics.

5. Community-Based Intensive Services such as Play Therapy - Center for Human Services (chs-nw.org)

Call 206-880-8100 and ask for a WISe/Wraparound screening. Eligibility will be determined over the phone. The child must have Medicaid to be accepted into the WISe Program. Please have your Medicaid information ready for this call. Once you are screened as eligible, you will be scheduled for the initial assessment or additional phone screening to determine next steps. They strive to make the programs accessible quickly and in the setting that works best for your family.

6. Washington Law Help is a guide to free civil legal services for low-income persons and seniors in Washington. It is a library of free “know your rights” articles, videos, court forms, and do-it-yourself packets covering many common legal issues, available to the public.

7. Other Snohomish County Legal Resources listed on the county website

Conclusion

These resources are designed to offer practical help, whether you need legal guidance, advocacy, or assistance with basic needs. Take things one step at a time, and reach out to the programs that best match your situation. Starting the conversation can make it easier to move forward and connect with the right support for your needs.