HAITIAN WOMEN’S LEGAL PROJECT

Monique, a Haitian woman and mother of three young children, was beaten so severely by her husband that he injured her back and bladder, and left her with bruises across her face and body. He also left her with a hefty hospital bill when she sought medical care for her injuries.

Wilene, a Haitian woman, was a victim of another sort of violence. Her ex-husband managed to obtain custody of their son when they were divorced, while Wilene had "liberal" visitation. However, her ex-husband repeatedly denied her visitation and access to her child. Eventually he stepped up his psychological control over Wilene by filing a fraudulent court case to stop her from having any further contact with the child. He claimed that Wilene was perpetrating domestic violence. Without a strong legal defense, Wilene was in danger of losing her son while being branded an abuser.

Luckily, both Monique and Wilene found their way to Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. As a result of the vigorous advocacy provided by their attorneys, they received the protection of the court. Monique obtained a permanent injunction against her husband, who was also ordered to pay her medical bills and ongoing child support. In Wilene’s case, the judge quickly realized that her husband’s claim of abuse was without merit, and dismissed his petition with prejudice. LSGMI also assisted Wilene in obtaining a specific visitation schedule, and eventually full custody and child support. Both women finally were safe, and their children secure.

Not all Haitian women are as fortunate as Monique and Wilene. Haitian women in our community experience a high rate of domestic violence, yet due to cultural and other barriers, they are reluctant to seek out the services of an attorney. By specifically targeting this group of clients and developing strong collaborative relationships with providers who work with them, the Haitian Women’s Legal Project intends to diminish barriers to accessing the justice system, protect Haitian women’s legal rights and enhance the independence, safety and economic security of poor Haitian women residing in Miami-Dade County. No organization in Miami-Dade County provides the comprehensive outreach and legal services contemplated by the Haitian Women’s Legal Project, which has the capacity to meet all of the civil legal needs of Haitian women in one place and provides the full range of legal services required by Haitian women who are domestic violence victims.

Founded in 1966, LSGMI is a nonprofit corporation and a full service law office which is able to provide representation in domestic violence, housing, public benefits, education and health care access problems. LSGMI is also an experienced provider of community outreach and education services to isolated and vulnerable client groups, and has established strong relationship with the Haitian community. LSGMI employs Haitian American attorneys, paralegals and support staff who are fully fluent in Creole and are culturally sensitive. Because of its relationships, LSGMI has the trust and confidence of community leaders, which is an essential first step in breaking down the barriers many Haitian women experience in seeking help to solve difficult family and personal problems.

The Legal Services Corporation and the Florida Bar Foundation are LSGMI’s primary sources of funding, complemented by state, local and private grants. LSGMI also receives contributions through the United Way Contributor Choice Program. Your tax deductible contribution to LSGMI in support of the Haitian Women’s Legal Project will ensure that the Project is a success.

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Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc.
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Miami, FL 33137-4129