Domestic violence advocates are already seeing an uptick in the number and severity of domestic violence incidents due to the recession. To help victims file protective orders, the Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence is hosting training for new and returning volunteers for the Protective Order Pro Bono Project May 15 in Indianapolis.

The training, which takes place 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the ICADV's offices at 1915 W. 18th St. in Indianapolis, is free to participants in exchange for accepting at least one pro bono assignment from the POPBP. Volunteers will also receive six free hours of CLE credit, including one hour of ethics.

ICADV's legal director, Kerry Hyatt Blomquist, has seen an increase in interest among attorneys who want to help. She also reported more law students are volunteering to take these cases, but lawyers are needed to partner with the students.

Lawyers don't need previous experience with protective orders, she said. Everything they need to know will be covered at the training. Blomquist has also offered to sit in court with attorneys who request additional support.

A working lunch will be provided and parking is free at the ICADV's offices. For more information, contact Blomquist at kblomquist@violenceresource.org  or (317) 917-3685. To register, visit the ICADV's Web site; scroll down to Protective Order Pro Bono Project Training. The training form is also available online.