Family Violence Appellate Project

Giving survivors a second chance at justice

While FVAP is open and our services continue to be available, as of March 9, 2020, in order to ensure the safety and well-being of clients and FVAP staff, we are meeting with visitors only by appointment until further notice. Our helpline is (510) 380-6243, and our business line is 510-858-7358. You may also email us at info@fvaplaw.org.
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Legal Victory for Immigrant Survivors and Non-English Speakers

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We’re happy to share that in a recent published opinion, SY v. Superior Court, 29 Cal. App 5th 324 (2018), English language fluency can no longer be used as a reason to grant custody. While we do disagree with the portion of this ruling that still granted joint custody to S.Y.’s abuser, this court ruling is an important win for non-English speakers and immigrant survivors of domestic violence, who face discrimination based on their English language fluency.