How to Find Information on the Penalty for Domestic Violence in New York

New York state law characterizes domestic violence as a ''family offense;" the laws apply only to people who are married, divorced or separated, linked by children, or related through blood or marriage. If you are the victim of abuse or know someone who is, follow these steps to find help in New York.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Telephone

Find the Penalty for Domestic Violence in New York

1. Visit the home page for Women'sLaw.org (see Resources below).
2. Choose ''NY'' from the ''Select State'' drop-down menu. This will lead you to information about the penalties for domestic violence in New York.
3. Click on ''How to Get an Order of Protection" to learn your rights. Take notes or print out the material for later reference.
4. E-mail your questions to the Women'sLaw.org. Create an email address for responses that your abuser cannot access.
5. Contact the helpline of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (see Resources below) to speak directly with someone. They can give you additional information on the laws regarding domestic violence in New York.

Tips & Warnings

• Getting an order of protection from criminal court means you intend to press criminal charges against your abuser.
• You have the right to request a police escort if you must collect your belongings at the abuser's residence..
• Be safe when researching online. If you are a victim of abuse in the home, you might want to conduct your research at the library; home computers often hold records of Web sites you have visited.
• If you've tolerated repeated abuse, seek counseling to learn why you've continued to be a victim.
• Take action and file an order of protection with the court to keep your abuser away from you. Many abusers make promises to end violence but are often incapable of stopping on their own. It is important to get the law behind you since domestic violence can escalate, sometimes to murder.