If they respond, but do not make an arrest, get the police report number and go to the District Court commissioner in your area to press criminal charges. The commissioner will either issue a summons for your abuser to appear in court or an arrest warrant. If the police see a physical injury as the result of domestic violence, they may arrest the abuser on the spot. If the police do not make an arrest, you should go to the District Court commissioner. Often, the commissioner will have a list of organizations that assist families in crisis.
Many abusers try to pressure victims to drop the charges before the trial.
Once the charges are brought, only the prosecuting attorney may drop the charges. Often at the time of the trial, the abuser and prosecutor agree on a guilty plea. If this happens, you will not be asked to testify. However, be prepared to testify in case an agreement is not reached. If you need support and assistance in going to court, call your local domestic violence program for accompaniment.