Domestic violence consists of abusive behaviors used to control a relationship. Domestic violence not only occurs in marriages but can also occur in dating relationships, heterosexual as well as gay and lesbian. Although domestic abuse can include mental and physical abuse, most domestic violence law revolves around physical abuse, sexual abuse and stalking.
The Violence Against Women Act
One of the most influential domestic violence laws is the Violence Against Women Act. Passed in 2005, this act covers a wide range of interstate domestic offenses including dating violence, stalking, cyber stalking and sexual violence. The act also provides a guideline for the dispersement of government grants to organizations that educate against and help prevent domestic violence.
Victims of Trafficking And Violence Prevention Act of 2000
Another influential law regarding domestic violence is the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Prevention Act of 2000. This act expands protection not only to traditional domestic violence problems but also another form of relationship violence known as trafficking. This act sets out laws to help monitor and prevent trafficking, as well as sets the standards for eliminating trafficking domestically and abroad, and increases the punishment for violations of the law. This act also provides provisions for reducing violence against women in general including enhancing protection against older women against domestic violence, and limiting the effects of domestic violence against children.
Personal Protection Orders
Personal protection orders, commonly referred to as restraining orders, also contribute to domestic violence laws. A protection order is issued by a circuit court and protects victims, or potential victims of domestic violence by forbidding certain behaviors of the offending member of the relationship. This order can accomplish actions, including but not limited to preventing the offender from entering your property, threatening you, threatening your children, taking your children, contacting you by telephone or even contacting you by email.
State Laws
Domestic violence laws are also put in place at the state level to help protect women against abuse. Each state's laws may differ slightly, but all cover important issues including stalking, sexual abuse, physical violence, threats, restraining orders and custody. To learn more about your state's specific domestic violence laws, contact your local courthouse.
References
- United States Department of Justice: Office on Violence Against Women
- Minnesota Center Against Violence and Abuse: The Federal Domestic Violence Laws and the Enforcement of These Laws
- Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000
- Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005
- Ingham County: Personal Protection Orders
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