ABA Family Legal Guide

Family Law

Marriage

Domestic Violence

What are legal remedies for domestic violence?

There are several remedies. All states allow a court to issue a protective order, ordering the alleged abuser to stop abusing or harassing someone. In addition, the orders will often require the abuser to stay away from the spouse, the spouse's home, or the spouse's place of work. If the person continues to abuse his or her spouse (or another person protected by the order), the abuser can be charged with a criminal violation of the order in addition to being charged with other offenses, such as battery.

In many states, protection is also available for people in dating relationships that have become abusive.