Domestic violence is a serious issue in Rockville, as it is in every city across Maryland. Now, one nearby city is expanding services available to victims in an effort to reduce domestic violence.

The city of Baltimore has teamed up with the House of Ruth, a non-profit organization that works on behalf of domestic violence victims, to combat domestic violence through the Lethality Assessment project. With help from police, the Lethality Assessment project works to connect victims of domestic violence to supportive services. Thanks to a $750,000 federal grant, Baltimore will now be expanding the Lethality Assessment project from three police districts in Baltimore to all nine.

One House of Ruth representative said they are excited to partner with Baltimore police officers and the city of Baltimore. Although the House of Ruth already helps many victims of domestic violence, the expansion of the program will help them identify why domestic violence continues to be a problem.

In addition to the expansion of the Lethality Assessment project, Baltimore will also be opening a visitation center early next year. The center will be a place that parents can go to safely exchange custody of children.

Baltimore's efforts are consistent with Maryland's overall strong stance against domestic violence. In Maryland, victims of domestic abuse are entitled to a temporary protective order as soon as danger becomes apparent.

In many cases, domestic violence situations are solved through divorce or child custody litigation. Anyone in Maryland who is a victim of domestic violence would do well to consult with an experienced attorney who can help sort through the various matters.

Source: WBAL.com, "City Approves Expansion of Services For Abuse Victims," Anne Kramer, Jan. 25, 2012