Support

First of all, this checklist for abuse may be useful to you or the person you’re asking about. While it’s written for “partners,” the kinds of abuse it lists may apply to different situations, including abuse of a child: https://www.womenslaw.org/about-abuse/am-i-being-abused/signs-abuse

We also have information on making a safety plan to keep as safe as possible before, during, or after leaving: https://www.womenslaw.org/about-abuse/safety-tips. Even if the victim is not ready to hear this information, it can still be helpful to share with her/him so s/he knows this information is available when s/he is ready.

One of the most unfortunate side-effects of domestic violence is that victims often feel extremely isolated. It often helps victims to feel connected to loved ones and friends, and that those people continue to support the victim even if s/he decides s/he is not yet ready to leave.

When s/he is ready, a local domestic violence program may also be able to assist her/him with counseling, linking her/him up with resources in her/his community, and helping her/him find safe shelter. To find a domestic violence program in your state, go here: https://www.womenslaw.org/find-help/ny/advocates-and-shelters

For information on what type of help the legal system can provide, we have information on getting a restraining order here: https://www.womenslaw.org/laws/ny/restraining-orders. If a victim is over 18, they would need to go to the court to petition for an order themselves.

Many forms of abuse can also be reported to the police (physical abuse, stalking, harassment, and similar crimes). You can see information about how a victim can report a crime here: https://www.womenslaw.org/laws/ny/crimes