DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT INFORMATION
EMILY SHOOK
FIRST ASSISTANT
Domestic Violence Unit
Emily first joined the Greene County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office in August of 2007. She received her undergraduate degree from Drury University and her Juris Doctorate from the University of Missouri – Columbia School of Law. Prior to becoming a licensed attorney, Emily worked in our office as a Rule 13 Intern and also with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office. During her time as an Assistant Prosecutor, Emily has handled traffic offenses, domestic assaults, sex offenses, felony assaults, robberies, and homicides. Emily also has several years of experience in private practice defending municipalities and government officials in federal civil litigation.
In 2022, Emily became the first leader of the newly created Domestic Violence Unit. She is currently on the leadership committee for the Greene County Family Justice Center and the Board of Directors for Harmony House. She is a graduate of Leadership Springfield Class 37 and the Greene County Leadership Academy Class 7.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT INFORMATION
The Domestic Violence Unit is a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to seeking justice for victims of domestic abuse and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. This specialized team consists of attorneys, victim advocates, investigators and support staff who work collaboratively to address the complex legal and emotional challenges associated with domestic and intimate partner violence. With a deep understanding of the dynamics of abuse and the legal complexities involved, the team provides comprehensive support to victims while vigorously pursuing prosecutions to ensure that offenders are held accountable and that victims receive the protection and justice they deserve.
Utilizing a victim-centered approach, our Domestic Violence Unit strives to empower survivors by connecting them with the necessary resources and support to navigate the legal process and rebuild their lives free from violence. As a partner agency within the Greene County Family Justice Center, our team collaborates with law enforcement agencies, victim advocacy organizations, and community partners to enhance coordination and communication, streamline case management, and implement innovative strategies to effectively combat domestic violence within Greene County.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence refers to a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another. It can occur between persons who are or were married, dating, related by blood or marriage, living together, or who have children in common. Domestic violence can affect people of all genders, ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Domestic violence is a complex issue with profound physical, emotional, and societal consequences. It often escalates over time and can result in severe injuries, long-term trauma, and even death. Breaking the cycle of domestic violence requires comprehensive support systems, including legal protections and community resources, to empower survivors, hold perpetrators accountable, and prevent future incidents.
Domestic violence can take various forms, including:
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Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm or injury such as hitting, punching, kicking, strangling, or using weapons.
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Emotional Abuse: Manipulative behavior aimed at undermining the victim's self-esteem, causing fear, intimidation, and psychological trauma through tactics like humiliation, threats, and isolation.
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Sexual Abuse: Coercing or forcing sexual acts against the victim's will, including rape, unwanted touching, and sexual degradation.
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Financial Abuse: Controlling or restricting the victim's access to financial resources, employment, or basic necessities, thereby creating dependence and powerlessness.
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Digital Abuse: Using technology to harass, monitor, control, or intimidate the victim, such as stalking, cyberbullying, or unauthorized surveillance.
Information on Orders of Protection
For information please click here
Information on Missouri Safe at Home
For information please click here
Greene County Family Justice Center click here
The Greene County Family Justice Center offers services from many on-site, community partners in one safe location. All services are coordinated by a Navigator (community advocate) and are free of charge and confidential. Some of the services we offer include:
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Crisis intervention
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Safety planning
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Assistance in filing an emergency order of protection (ex parte)
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Assistance in accessing emergency shelter
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Basic legal information
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Civil legal representation including divorce, child custody, and orders of protection
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Assistance in filing a police report related to domestic or sexual violence
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Crisis counseling
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Prosecution services
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Assistance with community resources, including housing, Medicaid, food stamps, etc.
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Child protection services
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Assistance with child support orders and enforcement
Safety Planning
For information please click here