Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Support, Safety Planning, and Civil Legal Help

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, where organizations like Idaho Legal Aid Services (ILAS) take time to honor survivors, recognize the realities of relationship abuse, and make sure people know where to turn for help.

KTVB just ran a story on the ways law enforcement and advocacy organizations are using this month to share resources and encourage survivors to reach out. What stood out in their coverage is the focus on practical, local avenues to safety, especially true for survivors needing more than crisis response. They need ongoing support, safety planning, and help with the civil legal issues that come with rebuilding security.

That's where ILAS comes in. We partner with Family Court Services to host confidential legal assistance workshops at the Ada County Victim Services Center on the second and last Thursday of each month, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. During this time, survivors can get help completing forms and understanding their options. The best part is you don't need an appointment beforehand.

Throughout this month, remember that Domestic Violence Awareness isn't just about awareness. It's about making sure the people who need help can actually find it.

If you or someone you know is navigating safety and legal concerns related to domestic violence, reach out. We're here.

(General information, not legal advice.)

Attribution/Source: KTVB (Tracy Bringhurst), "Treasure Valley law enforcement, advocacy groups support victims and survivors of domestic violence," published October 5, 2025 (updated October 12, 2025). Read the original reporting (external link)

Don’t Ignore an Eviction Notice: What ILAS Sees Every January

Every January, our phones get busier. The holidays end, bills come due, and housing situations that felt manageable in November can turn urgent fast. KMVT recently reported on this pattern, highlighting how overdue rent, seasonal expenses, and delayed notices tend to collide right after the new year - and how quickly things move once a pay-or-quit notice is served and a case is filed.

The most common regret we hear from people facing eviction is simple: "I didn't realize how fast this would happen."

If you're worried about rent, talk with your landlord early if you can. Save every notice you receive. And if a case is filed, show up to the hearing, even if you don't have an attorney yet. Being present matters more than most people realize.

ILAS is here to help with eviction notices and housing cases. If you're not sure where you stand or what your options are, reach out before the situation escalates.

Attribution/Source: KMVT/KSVT (Ryan Hill), "Law offices get more calls about housing cases at the start of the new year," published December 28, 2025. Read the original reporting (external link)