Summary Guide
Screening for Domestic Violence

by The Domestic Abuse Committee of the Family Law Section of the Minnesota State Bar Association

In the creation of this domestic violence screening tool, the Domestic Abuse Committee of the Family Law Section of the Minnesota State Bar Association worked with attorneys who represented both victims of domestic violence and perpetrators of domestic violence, and consulted judges and many other professionals who regularly work with victims and abusers. The goal of this tool is to make it easier for attorneys to incorporate domestic violence screening as a routine part of practice and to enhance safety for themselves, their staff and their clients.

This helpful resource includes information on the following:

Screening Protocol for Attorneys

• Introductory and Preliminary Matters
• What Are You Screening For? Signs and Risk Factors to Look For

Suggested Screening Questions

• Questions to be used in conjunction with the Screening Protocol for Attorneys, along with what to listen for.
• Risk assessment questions to ask if the client discloses or you suspect domestic violence is occurring.
  

Tips for the Attorney:

• First Contact with a Client
  
• The First Interview (And On-Going During the Representation)
• During Representation
• If the Attorney Has Reason to Believe That Domestic Violence Is an Issue