Domestic Violence: Where to Get Help Right Away

If you are in immediate danger, call 911 now. Your safety comes first, and the steps below can wait until you are somewhere safe. This page lists national resources, explains how to plan for your safety, and describes where legal help can be found. It is general information and does not replace advice from people trained to help in your situation.

Immediate help

The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-SAFE (7233). The TTY number is 800-787-3224. Advocates are available to chat 24 hours a day, which can be useful if you cannot speak safely by phone. The National Center for Victims of Crime can be reached at 855-4-VICTIM (855-484-2846). The U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women lists these resources and a map to find local help.

Advocates can help you think through options, find shelter or services in your area, and plan for safety. You do not have to be sure about what you want to do before you call.

Plan for your safety

A safety plan is a practical list of steps for the situation you are in. It may include:

• a safe place you can go, and a way to get there;
• a trusted person who knows what is happening and can help;
• copies of important documents, such as identification, birth certificates, and a list of bank accounts, kept somewhere the other person cannot find them;
• a bag with essentials, including medication, keys, and money;
• a plan for children, pets, and school pickups;
• a record of incidents, with dates, photos, and any messages.

Phones, computers, and cars can be monitored by another person. Ask an advocate how to communicate more safely if you are concerned about that.

Many people find it helpful to tell one trusted person where they are going and when they expect to check in. If you cannot speak freely at home, ask an advocate about other ways to reach help, such as chat or a code word agreed with a friend.

Legal help and protective orders

Many people facing domestic violence learn about protective orders, which courts can issue to limit contact or require a person to stay away. Names vary by state, and some states call them restraining orders or civil protection orders. The process and the people who qualify depend on state law. Ask the court clerk or a lawyer how protective orders work in your state if you are considering that step.

Legal aid programs may be able to explain your options at no cost or low cost. The Legal Services Corporation's legal aid finder lets you enter an address or city to find an LSC-funded program near you. Ask whether they handle family law and protective order matters.

If you have been accused

Some people who contact these resources are the person accused of domestic violence. If that is your situation, the same principle applies: do not discuss the facts with anyone other than a lawyer, and do not contact the other person in violation of any order. A criminal defense lawyer can explain the charges and the court process. If you cannot afford a lawyer, ask the court about appointed counsel, since public defender systems exist for criminal cases.

If you are unsure whether it is safe to call or speak, a hotline can help you choose a time and method that works for you.

Where to find more information

The USA.gov courts page explains how federal, state, and local courts are organized. The county court clerk can explain the forms used in your area and where to file. The state court website often has self-help materials, including protective order forms.

For private legal representation, our family law practice page lists family lawyers by city.

Questions to ask when you call for help

• What are my options right now, and what happens if I stay where I am?
• Is there a local shelter or program that can help with transportation or housing?
• Can someone help me document what has happened?
• What legal options are available in my state, and how do I start?
• Who can I speak with about my children, my job, or my finances?

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a police report before I can get help? No. Hotlines and advocates can help without a report. A report may matter for some legal steps, and an advocate can explain how reports work in your area.

Will the hotline tell the other person that I called? Hotline calls are generally confidential. Ask the advocate how your information is handled, and tell them if you have concerns.

Can I get help if I am not sure the situation counts as abuse? Yes. Advocates can talk through what is happening and what options exist, even if you are not sure what to call it.

Is help available if I do not have money? Many services are free. Legal aid programs and some shelters offer assistance without charge or at reduced cost. Ask when you call.

General information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. Talk to a licensed attorney in your state about your situation.