**Urgent: New Family Justice Center for Domestic Violence Victims Set to Open in 2024**

UPDATE: Colorado’s 17th Judicial District Attorney’s Office is set to launch a groundbreaking “family justice center” in 2024, aimed at transforming support for victims of domestic violence. District Attorney Brian Mason announced this urgent initiative during a media event, highlighting the critical need for streamlined services for victims facing life-threatening situations.

The family justice center will be temporarily located at the Adams County Human Services Center, situated at 11860 N. Pecos St. in Westminster. “The most dangerous time for a victim is when they try to escape,” Mason emphasized, pointing to alarming statistics on domestic violence homicides. Currently, victims face numerous barriers, often requiring them to navigate multiple agencies across different locations to access essential services.

The family justice center is designed to provide all necessary resources under one roof, including legal assistance, housing support, counseling, and crisis intervention. This innovative model aims to significantly reduce obstacles that victims encounter, such as the need for child care during appointments.

Mason has been on a mission since taking office in 2021, establishing new strategies to combat domestic violence within the community. His efforts have led to the creation of a special victims unit that targets domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Additionally, a domestic violence high risk team has been formed, which evaluates cases for lethality factors and ensures swift intervention for at-risk victims.

“The need to serve victims of domestic violence exists now—it existed yesterday and five years ago,” Mason said. His commitment to establishing a family justice center reflects an urgent response to a pressing public safety crisis affecting individuals across all demographics. “Domestic violence impacts everyone,” he stated, underscoring its pervasive nature and the necessity to stay dedicated to this project.

This center will not only serve Adams and Broomfield counties but aims to become a lifeline for all individuals affected by domestic violence in the region. The initiative aligns with similar efforts seen in the west Denver area, where a family justice center has been successfully implemented by the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office, serving Gilpin and Jefferson counties.

As preparations for the family justice center continue, Mason’s office is simultaneously working towards securing a permanent location. The urgency of this project cannot be overstated; it promises to bring immediate relief and support to those who need it most.

As the launch date approaches, community members and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged. The center represents a significant step forward in addressing one of the most pressing public health issues of our time.

Stay tuned for updates on the opening and further developments in this vital initiative.