Domestic Violence


DOMESTIC VIOLENCE - IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT!

If you are a victim of domestic violence, you are entitled to certain rights and information. This document is meant to supply you with a number of referrals which may be of use. It also lists legal sources, restraining order information, and health care facilities. But most importantly, this document lists your rights as a victim of a violent crime.

ADVICE FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
  • Find a safe place and seek assistance by calling the police or dial 911. Although a person alleged to have committed Domestic Violence may have been taken into custody, that person may be released at any time.
  • Your report of Domestic Violence will be investigated to its fullest extent and an investigator will be assigned to maintain contact with you throughout the investigation.
  • If you have been the victim of an assault or other related conduct, you may request the District Attorney’s Office to file a criminal complaint. The District Attorney’s Office may be contacted at (714) 834-3600.
  • As a victim of Domestic Violence, you can the Domestic Violence Assistance Program at (714) 935-7956 for further assistance.
  • You can call a 24-hour crisis counselor at (714) 957-2737.
  • You have the right to file a civil suit for losses sustained as a result of the abuse. For additional information call the Domestic Violence Assistance Program at (714) 935-7956.
  • Domestic Violence is a crime.
FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
  • Many victims of Domestic Violence don't know where to turn for help. Some feel trapped in their situations because they feel dependent on their husband for financial support and sometimes emotional support. Also see Sexual Abuse.
  • Others tolerate the abuse and make excuses for their husbands such as, "he only does it when he's drunk, he promises he won't do it again, I still love him."
  • Other women blame themselves. They are only fooling themselves. No one ever has the right to assault another person. It is against the law and a violator is subject to jail and/or fine, as well as civil liability.
  • The police department will assist you in filing a complaint through the District Attorney's Office or you may place the person under a private person's arrest. You will be required to testify in court, and should avoid arresting a person just to "teach them a lesson", then later drop charges.
  • To stay in a violent environment is dangerous and could result in injury or even death in a "heat of passion". We understand how hard it sometimes is to leave a situation like this. But it may be necessary for your own safety. It sometimes takes a great deal of courage, but if there is a likelihood of you or your children getting injured you should leave.
  • Gone are the days when a woman's only job was to bare children and cook food. Today women have equal rights and opportunities and are able to be independent.
  • There are many agencies which can assist you with temporary shelter, counseling, or just someone to talk to. If you or your husband are in the military you can contact the on-base family services division.
TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER INFORMATION

Where:

The Juvenile Justice Center Room
Room C705
341 City Drive, Orange, CA.

When:

Monday thru Friday
8:00am thru 12:30pm and 1:30pm thru 4:30pm

Phone:

24-Hour Informational Recording
(714) 973-0134

IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Battered Women's Self Help Hotline:

(714) 992-1931

Domestic Violence Assistance Program:

(714) 935-7956

Emergency Hotline/Sexual Assault Crisis (24 hrs):

(714) 957-2737

Families Anonymous / New Hope Hotline:

(714) 639-4673

Interval House/Crisis Hotline Shelter:

(714) 891-8121

Restraining Orders (Informational - 24 hrs):

(714) 973-0134

National Child Abuse Hotline (24 hrs):

1-800-422-4453

Orangewood Children's Home:

(714) 935-7584

Orange County Mental Health:

(714) 834-5904