Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence Laws and Penalties

Domestic violence crimes involve acts of violence by and against those involved in domestic, family, or intimate relationships. Learn how states define and penalize crimes of domestic violence.

Differentiating Between Domestic Violence and Abuse

“Domestic violence” and “domestic abuse” are used in news stories to refer to incidents or allegations of physical violence committed between people who are married, who live together, or are who are dating.

Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence allegations are serious. It's important to know what to do and what not to do when facing domestic violence charges, real or fabricated.

Can You Sue Police for Failure to Investigate Criminal Allegations?

Understand police investigative duties and what can be done if police fail to properly investigate a crime.

Can I get the prosecutor to drop domestic violence charges against my partner?

My husband and I got into an argument and things got out of hand. Police arrested him for domestic violence. I want the charges dropped because I don't want this to cause an issue and I think we can work it out. Is it possible?

Domestic Violence Trials: When the Victim Refuses to Testify

While challenges exist to prosecuting domestic violence cases without victim testimony, prosecutors may have other evidence of the crime that proves the case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Spousal and Marital Privileges: Can Spouses Be Forced to Testify Against One Another?

Learn how spousal immunity and marital privileges work, whether your spouse can testify against you, who holds the privilege, and when exceptions allow testimony to come in.