Know your rights ·

I am afraid to go home tonight

General information for New Jersey, New York and Washington, DC · Last updated

Quick answer

Prioritize immediate safety. Call 911 for immediate danger and a domestic-violence advocate for individualized safety planning.

Do now

If safe, identify a place to go, trusted support, medication, identification, and essential child items. Use a safer device to contact the Hotline or local services. Ask about emergency protection, shelter, transport, and children’s needs.

Watch for

Do not announce a departure if that increases danger. Leaving can be a high-risk time; a generic checklist is not a substitute for a personal safety plan.

Official sources

National Domestic Violence Hotline — Plan for Safety, National Domestic Violence Hotline — Internet Safety, NJ Courts — Domestic Violence, DC Courts — Domestic Violence Division.

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