A court may issue a protective order to protect the abused person or his or her children. This order often requires the abuser to stay away from the abused person, his or her home, and workplace. Such an order may also award temporary custody of children to the abused person. If the abuser violates the order, he or she may be charged with a criminal violation of the order and possibly other criminal offenses. Anyone experiencing domestic violence should seek help.
Many communities provide shelters for victims of abuse.
Hospitals, churches, and crisis intervention agencies can also help. These local organizations are usually listed in the telephone directory. Help is also available from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, P.O. Box 18749, Denver, CO 80218-0749. Abuse victims can also get help from the police or the local state's attorney. 2001 The Learning Company.