INTIMATE PARTNER ABUSE - Police and Courts
For GLBT victims and survivors of intimate partner violence, there are many factors to consider before engaging the criminal justice system. You choice to engage the police or courts will vary considerably based upon
a) The state you live in and its specific laws concerning intimate partner violence.
b) Your expected reaction from law enforcement and the courts – this will vary not only by state, but within a state as well.
c) Whether or not involving the police and/or courts will make the victim or survivor safer or put them in more danger.
PLEASE NOTE:
The information on these pages is specific for Massachusetts. Many of the concepts will be universal, but the language and definitions in the laws of other states can vary significantly. In some states, a GLBT individual may not qualify for a restraining order.
If you are not from Massachusetts, you can contact a GMDVP advocate who can either help you identify the laws in your area or refer you to a program near you that will be more familiar with the criminal justice system in your area.