Approximately 1.3 million women are victims of domestic violence annually, according to the American Bar Association, which estimates that between 3.3 million and 10 million children witness domestic violence every year. A Parsippany law firm is taking an active step to increase education on the subject in the area.

The  Weinberger Law Group will host an educational workshop for those working in the field of domestic violence assistance in an effort to lend their expertise and provide the employees of these organizations with an additional set of resources to aid them in their efforts.

Thousands of domestic violence victims in New Jersey have sought help from women’s shelters and domestic violence organizations that can aid them in taking the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families from further abuse. The professionals that work at these organizations are often the first outside persons that any of these victims have spoken to about their abuse, making them an integral part of the recovery process.

"Domestic violence is a serious problem that plagues families throughout New Jersey and the nation," explained attorney Bari Weinberger, who specializes in divorce law. "Victims of domestic violence are often resistant to reach out for help because they feel trapped and fear for their lives and those of their children. When a victim comes forward it is imperative that they are equipped with all the necessary tools to obtain proper safeguards to ensure their protection."

Whether the subject is violence victims or those agencies that help them, education is key, Weinberger said. 

"It has been our experience that an educated victim is more at ease with the process," she added. "This translates into the ability to begin their new life without the constant need to look over their shoulder out of fear.”

And, she said, it also necessitates making sure those working to assist domestic violence victims have the knowledge and tools they need to help these women—and men—move forward in their lives.

In conjunction with the Parsippany Police Department's domestic violence liaison officer, licensed clinical social worker Josh Glawe and clinical psychologist Dr. Stuart Leeds, Weinberger will participate in a discussion on Feb. 6 from 4-6 p.m. at the Ramada Inn on Route 10 in East Hanover.

The event is free and organizers say it will give domestic violence and women’s shelter employees an enriching and educational evening that will help them to better serve victims of domestic violence.