Know the Laws

• State Law Overview

  Most of the laws relevant to domestic violence and sexual assault are based on state law.

• Restraining Orders

  Information about domestic violence restraining orders (DVRO) and Civil Harassment Orders.

• Custody

  Information about custody and parental kidnapping in California.

• Parental Kidnapping

  Information about parental kidnapping and emergency custody in California.

• Divorce

  Basic information about divorce in California.

• Housing Laws

  Information about the ability of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking to break a rental lease without penalty.

• Workplace Protections

  California state law provides employment protections for domestic violence victims who need to take time off from work to handle issues related to domestic violence.

• Crimes

  Information about crimes the abuser may have committed in California and victim assistance programs.

• State Gun Laws

  There are state laws that may make it illegal for an abuser to buy or have a gun.

• Suing Your Abuser

  You may have a right to sue your abuser for medical costs, lost wages, and to recover your property.

Federal Laws

• Immigration

  Immigration information for victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse.

• Federal Gun Laws

  Under federal law, which applies to all states, an abuser may lose his right to have a gun.

• Military

  Information about military protection orders and confidentiality on military bases.

Tribal Laws

• Tribal Law

  Information about tribal laws related to domestic violence and sexual abuse.

Religious Law

• Jewish Get Law (Divorce Law)

  A get is a divorce under Jewish law.