Law Enforcement's Duties Toward Victims of Domestic Violence

Peace officers are obligated to use all means within reason to prevent further abuse of domestic violence victims. By law, they must give the victim immediate and written notice of the rights, remedies, and services available to victims of domestic violence.

The written notice shall include the following or similar statement:

"If you are the victim of domestic violence and you believe that law enforcement protection is needed for your physical safety, you have the right to request that the officer assist in providing for your safety including asking for an emergency telephonic order for protection. You may also request that the officer assist you in obtaining from your home toiletries, medication, clothing, business equipment, and any other items as determined by the court, and in locating and taking you to a local safe place including, but not limited to: a crisis center, a family member's, a friend's, or a similar place of safety. If you are in need of medical treatment, you have the right to request that the officer assist you in obtaining an ambulance. You may request a copy of the report filed by the peace officer at no cost from the law enforcement department."

Language

If English is your second language or you don’t speak any English, you have a right to request an interpreter to assist you with the police and in any court proceedings. Make sure to let the police and/or the court know that you need an interpreter to help you.

Try Also Reading…

• Stalking

• Domestic Violence & Subsidized Housing

• Protective Orders

• Where to get protective orders

• How to Get Protective Orders

• When You Need Immediate Protection

• What Happens Next?

• Testifying at the Final Hearing

• Final Orders

• Violation of Orders

• Stalking and Protective Orders

• Enforcing Protective Orders From Other States

• The Law

• Criminal Charges for Domestic Violence and Stalking

• Protective Order Resources

Date: March 16, 2017

Author: NHLA