Court Watch is a volunteer-powered initiative designed to bring transparency, accountability, and humanity to domestic violence and Order of Protection cases in St. Louis.
Volunteers are the eyes and ears of the courtroom. Their observations are essential in identifying both the strengths of the system and opportunities to better support survivors of domestic violence. Data collected by our trained volunteers is compiled into an annual report to suggest and aid in improvements that will support survivors and impact broader systems shaping the administration of justice.
Court Watch Goals
Send trained volunteers into the courtroom to collect data and evaluate judicial fairness
Hold the justice system accountable for its actions
Identify problem patterns and issues within the court system
Improve the administration of justice
Increase awareness and trust in the justice system
What is an Order of Protection (OP)?
An Order of Protection is a legally-binding court order requiring physical separation between the person filing (the Petitioner) and the person being filed against (the Respondent) to prevent abuse, stalking, and harassment.
Why Are OP Cases Important?
It is often the first step a survivor takes toward achieving physical safety and peace of mind and often acts as a precursor to legal separation, divorce, custody arrangements, or the pursuit of criminal charges.
What Is the Impact of Court Watch?
When the process of filing and obtaining an OP is accessible, efficient and fair, survivors
are more likely to receive the protection they need and feel supported throughout the legal
process.
LOOKING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
Become A Court Watch Monitor!
Court Watch empowers trained volunteers to monitor Domestic Violence/Order of Protection courtroom hearings to promote judicial fairness, transparency, and accountability and support survivors of domestic violence.
We are now recruiting volunteers who are motivated to make an impact and interested in supporting survivors of domestic violence. No legal experience is required.
To learn more about the Court Watch program and upcoming volunteer training opportunities, reach out to Rachel Bray at rbray@ncjwstl.org or call (314) 514-4955.
Courts Matter Chair: Randee Schmittdiel
Court Watch Co-Chairs: Chris Eldarrat and Anna Shabsin
