Domestic Violence - A Victim's Rights

You have the right to appear at District Court, Probate and Family Court, Superior Court, or Boston Municipal Court, if you reside within the appropriate jurisdiction and file a complaint requesting any of the following orders:

An order restraining your attacker from abusing you.
An order directing your attacker to leave your household, building, or workplace.
An order awarding you custody, if the attacker has a legal obligation of support.
An order directing your attacker to pay you for losses suffered as a result of abuse, including medical and moving expenses, loss of earning or support, costs restoring utilities, replacing locks, reasonable attorney's fees, and property damage sustained.

You have the right to go to the appropriate District Court or the Boston Municipal Court to seek criminal complaint for threats, assault and battery, assault with a deadly weapon, and any related offense that places your life in danger.

If you are in need of medical treatment, you have the right to request an officer present drive you to the nearest hospital or otherwise assist you.

If you believe that police protection is needed for your physical safety, you have the right to request the officer present remain at the scene until you and your children can leave or until your safety is otherwise assured.

You may request that the officer assist you in locating and taking you to a safe place, including but not limited to a designated meeting place for a shelter or a family member.

You may request a copy of the police incident report at no cost from the department.

South Shore Women's Center (508) 746-2664.

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