The Center for Family Justice – Bridgeport, CT

A Sanctuary for Hope, Healing, and Justice in Bridgeport

For over a century, The Center for Family Justice (CFJ) has served as a vital nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic, sexual, and child abuse in Bridgeport and surrounding communities. With roots tracing back to 1895, CFJ has evolved into a comprehensive crisis services center, providing a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where victims can find the resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives. Our mission is to provide services that create hope, restore lives, and drive social change through education and community collaboration. We believe everyone has the right to feel safe, and we stand with survivors, offering a pathway from crisis to empowerment. All of our services are provided completely free of charge, ensuring that help is accessible to everyone who needs it, regardless of their financial situation.

Comprehensive Legal Support for Survivors

A critical component of our holistic approach is the provision of direct legal assistance through our dedicated legal program. We understand that navigating the justice system can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially for those dealing with trauma. CFJ’s legal team provides invaluable support, guidance, and representation to help survivors secure their safety and independence. We are not just a service provider; we are advocates for justice.

Our legal services are focused on the most critical needs of abuse survivors and fall under several key categories:

• Domestic Violence Lawyers: This is the cornerstone of our legal advocacy. We assist clients in obtaining restraining orders and protective orders, which are crucial first steps in creating physical safety from an abuser. Our court advocates are present at the domestic violence courthouse to help survivors understand the legal process and ensure their voices are heard.
• Child Custody Lawyers: For survivors with children, navigating custody issues is paramount. Our legal team provides guidance and representation in family court to establish safe and stable custody arrangements that prioritize the well-being of the children, protecting them from further exposure to abuse.
• Divorce Lawyers: We provide support and connect clients with legal resources for divorce and separation proceedings. Empowering a survivor to legally and safely end an abusive relationship is a key step towards a life free from violence.
• Adoption Lawyers: In situations where abuse has tragically rendered a home unsafe, our network can provide guidance on legal pathways to ensure children find safe, permanent, and loving homes.
• Family Immigration Lawyers: We recognize that immigrant victims of abuse face unique and complex challenges. Our legal program connects clients with expertise in immigration law, including assistance with U-Visas and petitions under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), providing a path to safety and legal status.

More Than Legal Aid: A Circle of Support

Choosing The Center for Family Justice means accessing an entire ecosystem of care under one roof. Beyond legal help, we provide 24/7 crisis hotlines, emergency shelter, individual and group counseling, and services specifically designed for children and teens. Our advocates work tirelessly to provide safety planning, emotional support, and case management, connecting clients with medical, housing, and financial resources. We are proud to be a multilingual and multicultural organization, with staff and resources available in Spanish, Portuguese, and many other languages to serve our diverse community. At CFJ, hope starts here. We offer a compassionate hand and a powerful voice to help survivors on their journey to a safer, brighter future.