Domestic Violence Information by State

By John Mascolo, Esq. | Legally reviewed by Joseph Fawbush, Esq. | Last reviewed June 02, 2023

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Domestic violence victims need all the support they can get. Your community has resources to help victims of domestic violence. Community support can save the lives of victims and their family members.

What is domestic violence? Domestic violence can include physical violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and psychological abuse. It may involve dating violence where the batterer is not a household member. Some forms of domestic violence involve law enforcement. Some may lead to the filing of a criminal case.

If you need immediate help, call:

If you want to file a protective order in your state, see State Forms.

If you're a victim of domestic violence, see FindLaw's Get Help With Domestic Violence. Victim advocates and healthcare providers can help. They may provide a safe space to discuss an incident.

You can learn about domestic violence laws at FindLaw's Domestic Violence section. Articles will also explain legal actions to stop domestic abuse.

National

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

District of Columbia

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

  • Hawaii Domestic Abuse Hotlines:
  1. Oahu: 1-808-841-0822
  2. West Hawaii: 1-808-322-7233
  3. East Hawaii: 1-808-959-8864
  4. Kauai: 1-808-245-6362
  5. Maui: 1-808-579-9581
  6. Molokai 1-808-567-6888

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Vermont

Virginia

Washington

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Wyoming

Talk to an Attorney for More Information About Domestic Violence

Taking action early can be critical for victims of domestic violence. It can stop physical abuse and other violent crime. Finding specific state criminal law information and resources is a great first start.

Do you need an intimate-partner violence restraining order? Does it make sense to file for divorce? An attorney can help. Reach out to a family law attorney near you today. Find state-specific information to help victims of abuse. Discuss your specific situation and take action.

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Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?

  • Victims of domestic violence can press charges against their abuser
  • The ability or requirements to press charges varies in each state
  • Contacting a family law attorney or advocacy groups for advice is essential

Some attorneys represent victims of domestic violence. Others defend the rights of those accused of domestic abuse or other related crimes. Many attorneys offer free consultations.

Find a local attorney

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