The Growing Hope Project is a nonprofit organization based in Maricopa County, Arizona, dedicated to empowering individuals who are navigating family court on their own — especially survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual abuse. We understand that for many, the legal system can be intimidating and isolating, particularly for those without representation. That's why we prioritize providing essential domestic violence resources, legal education for survivors, and trauma-informed support. Our mission is simple: to help people feel seen, heard, and equipped to advocate for themselves and their children while navigating family court.
To provide legal education for survivors, resources, and family court support to self-represented litigants in family court — with a special focus on those impacted by domestic violence, trauma, and abuse — so they can navigate the system with strength, knowledge, and hope.
Imagine a world where justice is accessible, domestic violence resources are readily available, survivors receive the family court support they need, and every individual has the legal education for survivors to protect themselves and their families.
Legal Literacy: We provide plain-language workshops and guides as part of our legal education for survivors, helping individuals understand family court processes, custody issues, protection orders, and more. Support for Survivors: Through peer groups, safety planning, and advocacy, we offer essential domestic violence resources to assist individuals healing from abuse. Community Connection: We create safe spaces—both online and in-person—for people to share their stories, ask questions, and receive guidance related to family court support.
*Disclaimer* The Growing Hope Project does not provide legal advice or representation. We are not attorneys. All information is for educational purposes only.
Empowerment – Helping people stand confidently in their truth through access to domestic violence resources. Education – Breaking down barriers to legal knowledge by providing vital legal education for survivors. Healing – Recognizing trauma and walking alongside survivors to support their journey. Justice – Advocating for fairness, safety, and dignity for all, especially those navigating family court support. Community – Uplifting one another through connection and care.
Whether you’re representing yourself in family court or navigating the aftermath of abuse, you’re not alone. Below are trusted domestic violence resources, guides, links, and contacts to support your journey in family court support and legal education for survivors.
Legal Education for Survivors
Downloadable Guides:
· 📄 Understanding Maricopa County, Arizona Family Court
· 📄 AZ Victim Bill of Rights
· 📄 How to Create an ECR Account
· 📄 How to E-File
· 📄 Arizona Crime Victims Rights Laws
· 📄 Arizona DCS Supervised Parenting Time Guidelines
· 📄 Arizona Department of Education Parents Rights Handbook
· 📄 Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure
· 📄 Arizona Supreme Court Parenting Time Handbook
· 📄 Arizona Victim Bill of Rights
· 📄 Attorney General Agency Handbook on Immunity
· 📄 Denial of Family Violence in Court
· 📄 Joan Meier – U.S. Child Custody Outcomes in Cases Involving Parental Alienation and Abuse Allegations; What do the Data Show?
· 📄 Uniform Representation of Children in Abuse, Neglect and Custody Proceedings Act
Helpful Links:
🔗 Arizona Courts Self-Service Center
🔗 AZLawHelp – Family Law
🔗 Maricopa County Family Court
Support for Survivors
Hotlines:
🔗 ACESDV – 602-279-2900
🔗 National Domestic Violence Hotline – 800-799-SAFE
🔗 Childhelp – 800-4-A-CHILD
🔗 Teen Lifeline AZ – 602-248-TEEN
Safety Planning PDFs:
🛑 Create a Safety Plan
Community Support
🔗 CLS – Legal Aid
🔗 Arizona 2-1-1
Joint Legislative Ad Hoc Committee on Family Court Orders
o 8/27/2025 – 9:00 AM - Hearing Room 1 at the State Senate
1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Maricopa County Committees Meeting Calendar
o 9/4/2025 - 10:00 AM - Committee on Family Court - State Court Building: Conference Room 101. This meeting will explore family court support resources available to those affected by domestic violence. You may address the committee by submitting (1) your name, (2) who you are representing, and (3) the subject you wish to speak about to COFC-Staff@courts.az.gov, especially if you have insights on legal education for survivors.
o 9/9/2025 - Committee on the Impact of Domestic Violence and the Courts
o 9/16/2025 - Committee on the Impact of Domestic Violence and the Courts