WomensLaw serves and supports all survivors, no matter their sex or gender.

Legal Information: California

Know the Laws - By State

Please see below for state-specific laws that might be useful for victims and survivors of domestic violence. This information is written in a Q & A format and is meant to provide you with easy-to-understand information. You can also reach us at our Email Hotline if you have more specific questions.

A brief description of the difference between state laws and federal laws.

Information about domestic violence restraining orders, civil harassment orders, restraining orders to prevent elder or dependent adult abuse, workplace violence restraining orders, and gun violence restraining orders.

Information about custody in California.

A judge can order either or both parents to pay to support their child.

Information about parental kidnapping and emergency custody in California.

Basic information about divorce in California.

Information about the ability of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, abuse of an elder or dependent adult, or human trafficking to break a rental lease without penalty.

Information about California’s state law that provides employment protections for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

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

If you are a victim of domestic violence, it may be illegal for the abuser to buy or have a gun.

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