Domestic violence and protection orders

Abuse can involve threats, stalking, sexual violence, coercion, financial control, or technology misuse; a person does not need visible bruises before seeking help. Whether conduct qualifies for a particular civil…

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

You can seek safety help without a visible injury. Eligibility for a legal order requires local assessment of the conduct and circumstances.

Repeated unwanted conduct can require a safety plan and assessment for stalking or other protection.

Treat threats seriously and preserve safe evidence; legal and platform remedies may both be available.

Financial control can affect your ability to leave and should be part of safety planning.

Use a safer device or account to seek help. Private browsing does not eliminate monitoring.

Safety comes before evidence collection. Reliable existing records can help explain a pattern.

Advocacy and some civil remedies can be available independently of a criminal report.

The correct route depends on the conduct and qualifying relationship or circumstances.

Family Court and criminal-court routes have different requirements and purposes.

The Domestic Violence Division can explain CPO and other order pathways based on your situation.

For immediate threats, call emergency services. Otherwise preserve the conduct and ask about reporting and enforcement.

Include children’s immediate safety and emotional needs in the response.

Special housing protections may apply, but required notices, documentation, and eligible housing differ.

Tell the advocate about practical access needs so they can help identify suitable resources.

Seek qualified immigration and survivor assistance; an abusive person does not determine your legal options.

A safety plan may need workplace or school measures in addition to a court order.

Ask the issuing court about the required process. An order is not changed merely because the parties agree.

Federal law supports interstate enforcement of qualifying protection orders, but local practical steps should be checked.

Treat imminent threats as an emergency. Tell responders and advocates about weapons and specific threats.

Read and comply with the order immediately, even if you dispute the allegations.

Prepare for the specific hearing; temporary relief does not automatically become final relief.

Use a safe, lawful arrangement consistent with all orders.

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

Seek safety support regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, income, or relationship label.