Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services
Donate Today, Make A Difference
Read In Spanish
search our site:
join our mailing list:

News & Events

December 7, 2008

Supporters give over $45,000 at Black and White Gala: A Purple Ribbon Affair Auction/Gala!

read article »
October 1, 2008

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Many community events have been planned. Please support them. Let's stand together in solidarity for safe families. read article »

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services

DV/CPS Court Protocol

01.11.2008 | Posted By: Julie Farrow | Back to News

After a conference sponsored by DVSAS in 2006, regarding domestic violence as it pertains to child maltreatment, it was recognized that there was a need to develop a streamlined coordinated response protocol to ensure consistency in response to families where there is domestic violence. A Leadership Team of representatives from law enforcement, the courts, probation, CPS, DSHS, and appropriate service agencies was created under the leadership of Judge Charles Snyder. They met regularly over a period of two years to establish protocols designed to enhance communitywide response with families where there is domestic violence and children are involved.  The result of this undertaking was the publication of the Whatcom County Coordinated Response Protocol: Domestic Violence, Children, and Child MaltreatmentÂ

This document is intended to provide guidance and procedural direction for law enforcement agencies, courts, Child Protective Services (CPS) workers and service providers when responding to domestic violence in relationships where there are children and the children may be subject to maltreatment and ensure that all agencies or authorities connected with a case share appropriate information, and act with a coordinated effort to maximize safety for victims and children while holding abusers accountable.Â

Click here to see the report