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What should I do when it happens?
- Call 911 immediately
- Run to safety outside of the place of occurrence
- Tell the police every little detail and be cooperative
- Seek medical attention as soon as practical
- Do not return home until assured that you are safe from another attack or retaliation because of report
- Cooperate with the Commonwealth's Attorney and remain truthful about the details of the offense
- Get a protective order
What is a protective order?
Protective orders order the abuser from further acts of violence and can grant the petitioner (the abused party) with possession of the premises occupied by the parties.
There are three types of protective orders:
- EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE ORDER may be given at the time of the offense and remains in effect 72 hours.
- PRELIMINARY PROTECTIVE ORDER. Granted by the court at the request of the petitioner in absence of abuser if he/she does not appear for the hearing. May grant the petitioner exclusive possession of the car owned by the parties. Remains in effect for 15 days.
- PROTECTIVE ORDER. A hearing is held with all parties present and presenting evidence. Remains in effect for one year and may be extended for one more year.
Types of Domestic Violence Cases Prosecuted
Cases of felony physical violence, misdemeanor assault and battery pursuant to Virginia Code Section 18.2-57.2, stalking, and violation of protective order where the victim is the spouse of the defendant OR the victim has cohabitated (lived) with the defendant within the last 12 months OR the victim and the defendant have a child in common. The prosecutor also handles all ancillary charges that accompany a domestic violence felony or misdemeanor.
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