NCJ Number
74937
Date Published
1981
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This guide for women who have been beaten or threatened by their husbands or boyfriends is designed to help the women and decide if they need to intitate a court action, and describes court procedures and other alternatives.
Abstract
The guide explains that it is against the law for a man to beat or threaten his wife or girlfriend. When it occurs the woman may be able to protect herself from future beatings or threats by moving away or getting a divorce. However, if threats or beatings continue, getting the court's help may be her only option. The guide explains procedures involved in obtaining the evidence necessary to win the case, getting a lawyer and starting a criminal court case. The roles of the family court, domestic relations court, and criminal court in protecting the victim and keeping the assailant away are explained. For example, the guide explains how the woman should proceed if her husband or boyfriend violates an order of protection or injunction issued by a family or domestic relations court. Tips on the proper behavior at a court hearing are also given. In addition, the guide offers advice on obtaining welfare with instrauctions on how to fill out an application and present needed documentation. Names of the agencies which may be helpful to battered women are also provided.