Avoid domestic violence
Protective Orders and Restraining Orders
- A protective order is a legal document intended to prohibit your partner from physically coming near you or harming or harassing you, your children, or other loved ones.
- You can apply for a protective order at courthouses.
- Protective orders may be able to put a stop to physical abuse, but they depend on your partner’s adherence to the law and law enforcement’s willingness to enforce the protective order. Psychological abuse is still possible, and a protective order should never replace a safety plan.
Safety and Law enforcement
To minimize interactions with the criminal justice system during an emergency, identify non-law enforcement emergency service providers in your area before violence occurs. This can include local organizations, networks of trusted friends and neighbors, or other groups working towards transformative justice solutions.
- If you determine that it is safe for you and others for you to do so, report to your local police station during a life-threatening emergency.
- For non-life-threatening situations, consider speaking with us confidentially with one of our expert advocates.
Get Help
For some survivors, the criminal legal system may offer options for protection from abusive partners. Wecare does not give legal advice — nor are we legal advocates — but there may be legal resources available in your community that we can help you identify
