Know your rights ·

Someone I know may be experiencing abuse

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

Quick answer

Offer practical, nonjudgmental support while respecting their safety and choices.

Do now

Ask how and when it is safe to communicate. Offer contact with an advocate, transport, or secure document storage if wanted. Call emergency services for immediate danger. Learn about technology monitoring before sending resources to a shared device.

Watch for

Confronting the abusive person, announcing a plan, or publicly posting details can increase danger. Do not promise confidentiality you cannot maintain or pressure the person to follow a fixed timetable.

Official sources

National Domestic Violence Hotline — Plan for Safety, National Domestic Violence Hotline — Internet Safety.

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