Domestic Violence Services

Domestic Violence procedures are designed to protect the safety of all family members, which is of the utmost importance. When domestic violence allegations are present, Family Court Services has a specific set of policies and procedures that govern the practice of mediation. Additionally, parents have specific legal rights to separate sessions while participating in the Family Court Orientation and Parent Education program and in Family Mediation sessions. Parents alleging abuse may also request a support person to accompany them to Court, as well as to all other services at Family Court Services.

Other domestic violence services include the availability of a Family Assessment Specialist, and supervised visitation and exchange services are offered through Cope Family Center's Napa Access program. Emergency Mediation and the Family Law Facilitator Program may also play critical roles for families in which domestic violence may be a factor.

Safety is our First Concern

Family Court Services, located in the Historic Courthouse should be a safe and secure place to discuss issues about children. There is zero tolerance with regard to any expression or threat of violence, disorderly conduct, verbal abuse or observable intimidation.

If There Has Been Domestic Violence Between You And The Other Parent:

Notify Us-

On the back of the Parent Information Sheet, please answer the questions truthfully and completely. This sheet is given to you to fill in when you attend the Family Court Orientation and Parent Education program at Family Court Services.

If a protect order is in effect, bring a copy with you to our office.

When calling for any appointment, notify our staff that you need separate sessions and/or separate waiting areas.

Support Person-

The person protected by a restraining order has the right to request that a support person be present during mediation.

Separate Meetings-

The mediator will meet with parties separately and at separate times.

Confidential Address-

At the request of the client alleging domestic violence, residential addresses and phone numbers will be kept confidential.

Your Parenting Plan-

The custody/visitation order shall specify the time, day, place and manner of transfer of the child.

Parent Referrals-

Parents may be informed about profession counseling assistance where appropriate, and about parenting classes, Kid's Turn co-parenting classes, anger management or individual therapy.

Note: Family Court Orientation, Family Mediation, and Family Law Facilitation and Guardianship Services are offered by Spanish-speaking staff. Other languages are available through the use of certified interpreters.