12.1.3 Reasons Not to Decline Representation

In general, when assessing a case for representation, try not to decline representation based solely on reasons such as these:

• There is no evidence to corroborate the client’s reports of abuse.1
• There are no visible physical injuries.
• The client is unlikeable.
• The client has resisted an abusive partner by engaging in self-defense or in futile retaliatory violence.
• The client has a criminal record.
• The client has substance abuse or mental health issues resulting from the abuse or that may be used to undermine her credibility.
• The client withholds negative facts in early interviewing processes for fear that you will not take the case.
• The client has initiated contact with an abuser after separation or after obtaining a protective order.

• 1It is not at all unusual for victims to have never called the police nor sought medical attention. Similarly, the abusive partner may have destroyed her phone or deleted her cloud to destroy pictures or texts showing the abuse.