Domestic Violence Protections

Domestic violence — also called intimate partner violence — includes physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse between family members or intimate partners. The law provides significant protections for victims.

What Constitutes Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can take many forms:

Physical abuse — hitting, slapping, choking, or other physical harm

Emotional abuse — threats, intimidation, isolation, and controlling behavior

Sexual abuse — forced sexual contact or coercion

Economic abuse — controlling finances, preventing employment, or stealing assets

Stalking — repeated unwanted contact, surveillance, or threats

Most states define domestic violence broadly to include abuse between spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, dating partners, and family members.

Protective Orders

Victims can seek protective orders (also called restraining orders) from the court. Types include:

Emergency protective order — issued by a judge (sometimes at the request of law enforcement) for immediate, short-term protection (24–72 hours)

Temporary protective order (TPO) — granted ex parte (without the abuser present) for a short period until a hearing

Permanent protective order — issued after a hearing where both parties can present evidence; may last one to several years

A protective order may require the abuser to:

Stay away from the victim, home, workplace, and children's school

Cease all contact (in person, by phone, text, email, or through third parties)

Vacate the shared residence

Surrender firearms

Pay temporary child support or spousal support

Criminal Consequences

Domestic violence can result in criminal charges including assault, battery, stalking, violation of a protective order, and sexual assault. Federal law (the Violence Against Women Act — VAWA) also provides protections and funding for victim services.

Resources for Victims

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Local shelters and legal aid organizations

Safety planning with a domestic violence advocate

Immigration relief for abuse victims (U-visa, VAWA self-petition)

Barriers to Leaving

Leaving an abusive relationship is often the most dangerous time for a victim. The legal system provides tools — protective orders, emergency custody, and support services — to help victims safely exit abusive situations.

Domestic Violence Protections