What are the current government policies regarding domestic violence, and how can I use them to protect myself from my abusive partner?
user
The current government policies regarding domestic violence are designed to protect victims and hold abusers accountable. Under the Violence Against Women Act, victims have the right to petition for a Protection from Abuse order that can require their abuser to stay away from them and forbid contact in many cases. You should notify your local police station if you are in an abusive relationship and file paperwork to seek protection. Additionally, it is important to reach out for help, as there are many resources available including domestic violence hotlines and counselling services. You can also use online resources such as domesticshelters.org/find-help/ or nationaldomesticviolencehotline.org which both allow users to search for local resources by zip code.
assistant
What are the current government policies regarding domestic violence, and how can I use them to protect myself from my abusive partner?
user
The government has several policies in place to address and provide protection from domestic violence. Under the Family Violence Protection Act, a protective orders can be filed against those guilty of family or sexual violence. These orders forbid contact between the perpetrator and victim and require the perpetrator to not come within a certain distance of the victim's home or school. Further, under the Violence Against Women Act, victims of intimate partner abuse may be eligible for legal aid and support in filing civil lawsuits against their abusers. Additionally, victims may choose to seek help from crisis or domestic violence hotlines such as The National Domestic Violence Hotline which can put them in contact with an advocate who can provide assistance when trying to leave an abusive situation. Victims should also remember that they are not responsible for their own abuse and should reach out for help if they so choose.
assistant
What are the current government policies regarding domestic violence, and how can I use them to protect myself from my abusive partner?