Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Civil Legal Services

Since 2015, the Wisconsin Legislature and Governor have approved a modest annual appropriation for civil legal services to eligible individuals who are victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse (DVSA). This program is authorized by Wis. Stat. 49.1635(5)(a).

The funding for this program comes from the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding that Wisconsin receives, so services are limited to clients with children who meet the financial eligibility rules for TANF services.

The funding is passed through the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) for a WisTAF-administered grant program providing legal services statewide in civil matters related to domestic abuse, sexual abuse, or restraining orders or injunctions for individuals at risk under Wis. Stat. 813.123.

Our most recent report to DCF: Protecting Children & Families: 2023-2024 Domestic Violence & Sexual Abuse Civil Legal Services Grant Program Report

Current agencies serving clients with funding from this grant program: