Privacy for Victims: Oregon’s Address Confidentiality Program
Survivors of crime, violence, or abuse may feel unsafe knowing that others, especially their assailant, could find out where they live. Unfortunately, interacting with the legal system can put your address into the public record.
If you have been the victim of abuse, sexual assault, or hate crime, the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) can help keep your address confidential. This article will explain the ACP, who is eligible, and how to apply.
How does the Address Confidentiality Program work?
The Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) helps keep survivors safe by providing a substitute address you can use for court records and mail, so you don't have to share your home location. ACP participants are given a post office box in Salem. Twice a week, ACP staff will forward all legal documents, as well as first class, certified, and registered mail to the participant’s actual address.
Who is eligible for the Address Confidentiality Program?
The Address Confidentiality Program is available to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, or a hate crime or bias incident who:
- Live in Oregon
- Are over 18, or a minor with a parent or guardian applying on their behalf
- Live at an address unknown to their assailant
- Have a safety plan with an advocate or attorney, which can be created alongside your application
How do I apply for the Address Confidentiality Program?
If you are eligible for the ACP, you will need to apply through a certified application assistant. These assistants are often staff at non-profits and domestic violence resource centers who have completed specialized training to support survivors. Each organization may have a slightly different process, but it is generally best to call ahead and make an appointment.
The application process typically takes between 1-2 hours and includes:
- Completing the ACP application
- Working to remove your address from public records, such as utility accounts and voter registration
- Creating a safety plan tailored to your situation. This may include strategies to protect your privacy or steps to take if your address is discovered.
Depending on the organization, they may also offer additional resources.
What else can I do to keep myself safe?
If you are experiencing threats or abuse, and are in danger, call 911 or contact Call to Safety for 24/7 crisis support at 1888-235-5333
If you are a survivor of domestic violence and need support with a protective order or family law issue, The Commons offers legal coaching. At The Commons, a legal coach, who is a licensed Oregon attorney, provides advice, support, and education so that you have the tools you need to effectively represent yourself. Legal coaching allows self-represented parties to know their rights and feel confident, prepared, and informed through flat-fee appointments for a much lower cost than full representation.
Additional Resources:
- Learn about ways to maintain your privacy after domestic violence
- Learn about protective orders here
- Oregon Coalition Against Domestic Violence
- Oregon Department of Human Services Domestic Violence and Abuse Resources
- Disability Rights Oregon Crime Survivor Project
- The Commons Legal Resource Guide