Nevada County Family Justice Center Opens to Aid Violence Survivors

NEVADA CITY — Nevada County officials, law enforcement leaders, and community partners gathered on April 22 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. District Attorney Jesse Wilson cut the ceremonial ribbon to mark the official opening of the Family Justice Center of Nevada County at 590 Searls Ave., Suite A, in Nevada City.

The center operates as a co-located, multi-agency hub designed specifically for survivors of interpersonal violence. Services include support for victims of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder or dependent adult abuse, and human trafficking. Staff from partner agencies work together on site so survivors can access medical care, advocacy, legal support, and law enforcement assistance without traveling between multiple offices.

Previously, victims often navigated services from more than 50 separate agencies and nonprofits across the county. That process required repeated intakes, multiple retellings of traumatic events, time off work, and childcare arrangements. The new model allows survivors to share their stories in a comfortable setting while receiving comprehensive support in a single, safe location.

The project moved forward after the Nevada County Board of Supervisors approved acceptance of state grant funding. A $312,000 award was provided by the California Office of Emergency Services Emerging Family Justice Center program. An additional $500,000 federal grant was awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women. Western Sierra Medical Clinic provided the physical space and played a key role in planning.

“Every year, local law enforcement responds to hundreds of calls involving domestic or sexual violence,” District Attorney Jesse Wilson said. “Our office files hundreds of cases and our local domestic violence agencies receive thousands of requests for help. By bringing services together in one place, this Family Justice Center helps ensure victims receive compassionate, coordinated care while also strengthening our ability to respond effectively, hold offenders accountable, and improve outcomes for everyone involved.”

Western Sierra Medical Clinic Chief Medical Officer and Director of Pediatrics, Polly Conley, described the practical difference for families. She recalled siblings who spent 14 hours visiting six different offices on one of the worst days of their lives. “After working with children in Nevada County who were victims, it became clear to me that we can do better,” Conley said. “When I learned about Family Justice Centers, I had found my answer to this problem.”

Client interview rooms feature a design by the nonprofit Project Beloved to create a less clinical atmosphere. The facility serves survivors of all ages, from children to seniors. FJC Coordinator Stephanie Fischer noted that the center brings essential partners together in person so that no one person has to face dozens of separate appointments.

Residents can learn more or connect with services by visiting fjcnc.org.