Victims can file a complaint with the police, and ask them to arrest the offender. The person arrested for a family violence crime must go to court the next day court is open. At that time, the victim can request a protective order. Courts have Family Violence Victim Advocates to give victims services and support. Courts also have Family Violence Intervention Units which evaluate cases and serve both victims and offenders.
Victims can contact the clerk of the court to learn when the offender is scheduled to be in court.
The Family Violence or Family Relations staff can tell victims which court hearings are important to attend. Victims can get a court order to stop further physical injury or harassment.