Domestic Violence Laws

Victims of domestic violence are protected under both federal and state laws, and may seek relief in civil as well as criminal court. For example, victims may help law enforcement build a criminal case against their abuser while at the same time filing a civil lawsuit for assault and battery. Federally, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) offers additional resources for victims of domestic violence. FindLaw's Domestic Violence Laws sub-section includes state-specific links to domestic violence laws, related information and forms; an overview of the federal Violence Against Women Act; information about criminal stalking; and more.

Learn About Domestic Violence Laws

The Violence Against Women Act
A look at federal domestic violence legislation with a focus on the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Learn about the protections VAWA provides the victims of domestic violence.
What Is Domestic Violence?
An overview of domestic violence law. In this section, you’ll find definitions of domestic violence and dating violence, examples of abusive behavior, and a number of helpful resources for victims.

State Domestic Violence Laws
All states have laws criminalizing domestic violence and protecting the victims. In this section, you’ll find information on probable cause in domestic violence cases, examples of state domestic violence laws, and more.
Filing a Domestic Violence Lawsuit
Victims of domestic violence often bring a civil suit in addition to criminal proceedings in order to receive compensation for their injuries. This section offers information on things to consider before filing a suit, how to get legal help, and more.

Domestic Violence Laws Articles