Lawyers Manual - Unified Court System

The Domestic Violence Liaison (DVL)
Public Assistance and Housing 261
A DVL is available within every local social services district or at every
center in New York City. In New York City, some DVLs split their time between
two centers, and, in these instances, are not immediately available for
appointments, which will generally be scheduled within a few days. The DVL is
most often a staff person who is specially trained about domestic violence
issues. Some social services districts have contracted out DVL services to an
approved domestic violence service provider, so the DVL may be located offsite.
34 In some communities, the DVL may also wear other hats for the local
district such as child protective or adult protective services caseworker,
eligibility caseworker, or supervisor. Applicants and recipients may express
legitimate concerns about disclosing sensitive information to these individuals.
However, it must be stressed that when the worker is in the role of DVL, that
worker is bound by the job requirements and confidentiality provisions
specifically outlined for the DVL. 35
DVLs are responsible for conducting waiver assessments, providing
emergency safety planning, informing participants and benefits programs
about waiver decisions, and developing service plans in collaboration with
the survivor. 36 DVLs also assess the applicant’s or recipient’s “credibility”
and the necessity for a waiver. 37 To verify and establish credibility, the DVL
looks at relevant documentation, such as police reports, court records,
medical records, photographs, and orders of protections. However, the
minimum documentation required is only a sworn statement alleging the
abuse. 38 The DVL cannot require the survivor to provide additional
documentation. In situations where documentation is unavailable, a DVL may
also use collateral contacts (i.e. domestic violence shelter staff, clergy,
community agency staff, co-workers, family and friends) but only with the
applicant’s or recipient’s written permission. 39
When an FVO-related waiver is granted, the DVL must prepare a service
plan individually designed to help lead the client to safety and self-sufficiency.
The plan should list recommendations, referrals to services (i.e. to the local DV
program), and available options (i.e. getting an order of protection). A client is
not required to follow the service plan’s recommendations and cannot be
sanctioned for failure to heed the DVL’s suggestions. 40
Our clients report that when they finally have the opportunity to meet with
DVLs, many tend to be helpful and more sensitive to domestic violence issues
than regular caseworkers. As a general rule, DVLs are more knowledgeable