Legal Rights and Support Services for Domestic Violence Survivors in the U.S.
Domestic violence survivors in the U.S. have legal rights including protection, employment rights, immigration rights, and access to support services.
Legal Protections
Domestic violence survivors in the United States are entitled to various legal protections.
Restraining orders
can be issued to protect survivors from further abuse,
and these orders can prohibit the abuser from contacting or approaching the survivor
. Additionally,
the
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
provides federal protections and resources for survivors
.
The Supreme Court has upheld federal statutes that prevent individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders from possessing firearms
. These legal measures aim to ensure the safety and well-being of survivors.
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Employment Rights
Survivors of domestic violence have specific rights in the workplace. They have the right to inform their employer about their situation,
and employers are required to keep this information confidential
. This ensures that survivors can seek necessary support without fear of discrimination or retaliation. Additionally,
some states have laws that protect the rights of domestic violence survivors to continue working and caring for their families without facing discrimination
.
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Immigration Rights
Domestic violence survivors who are immigrants have the right to change their immigration status to ensure their safety. This can include applying for a
U visa
, which is available to victims of certain crimes, including domestic violence,
who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime
. This legal pathway provides survivors with a means to secure their status and protect themselves from further harm.
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Support Services
Survivors of domestic violence have access to a range of support services.
The
National Domestic Violence Hotline
offers confidential support and resources to survivors
. Additionally,
free legal advice and referrals are available for those seeking injunctions for protection against their abusers
. These services aim to provide survivors with the necessary support to navigate their legal rights and find safety from abuse.
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