Jackson Free Press

Sept. 20, 2011

Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood announced a new information guide for domestic violence victims at a press conference yesterday.

The guide provides information for how victims and can protection orders from offenders.

"Many victims of domestic violence are intimidated by the process of going to court for protection, particularly when they do not have the funds to hire a lawyer to represent them," Hood said in a statement. "This guide provides answers to common questions about protection orders, such as 'Who is eligible for a domestic abuse protection order?' and 'What is the process for obtaining a domestic abuse protection order?' The Guide also provides easy to follow instructions for filing out a petition requesting a domestic abuse protection order."
 
The Mississippi Department of Public Safety provided partial funds for the guide, which is available on the attorney general's website. Copies will also be available at all domestic violence shelters in the state and public libraries.
 
 "It is the hope that this guide will improve access to the court system by providing a roadmap for victims who are in need of a domestic abuse protection order, which will in turn, improve the safety of these individuals," Hood said.