What can you do about domestic violence if it happens to you?

Take the problem seriously, it will happen again.
Work out a safety plan for you and your children
The Domestic Violence Prevention Act allows victims to get legal protection without an attorney. Contact Skagit DV&SA Services or the court nearest you for assistance.
Call Skagit DV&SA Services for information about abuse, your rights, and options At 1-800-726-6010. Collect calls are accepted.
File for a protection order.
Call the police for help and tell them that you want a report filed. If no arrest is made, you can file charges yourself in a citizen's complaint.
Save evidence such as photographs of bruises and other injuries, ripped clothing, etc.
Remember that you are not alone. It is not your fault that your partner is violent.
In an emergency, call 911 for the police, get yourself and your children to a safe place, seek medical attention and call SDVSA for assistance.

Safety Tips

Plan ahead
Read safety planning information
Develop a plan with your children
Arrange to have a place to go
Make copies of important papers and hide them
Have available important phone numbers
Pack and hide an overnight bag
Put aside money, spare keys, and other important items
During an incident
Call the police for help (911)
Get out if you can
Bring important items
Avoid rooms with only one exit
Avoid the kitchen
When you've decided to get out of an abusive situation, but stay in your home
Change the lock, secure doors and windows
Arrange to have someone stay with you
Change your phone number
Obtain a Protection Order
Notify trusted friends and family
At the workplace, school, and public places
Inform your work, daycare, and schools
Change your daily routine
Plan ahead for unexpected contact with the abuser

What can you do if you know someone who is a victim of domestic violence?

Services

Services are provided to clients free of charge and are supported financially by donations. This includes information and referral for victims of domestic violence, their families and friends, and other service providers.

Emergency Shelter Services

We provide temporary shelter in a confidential location for victims of domestic violence and their children. These services include:

Food and clothing
Children's services
Information and referral
Support Groups
Advocacy
Domestic Violence Education

Legal Advocacy

Legal information and education
Criminal processes
Referral for legal representation
Civil processes
Assistance with protection orders
Other legal issues

Community Support Groups

Support groups are available for women who are or have been physically, emotionally or sexually abused.

Community Education

Speakers, trainings, and workshops are available.

Victim's Rights

If you are the victim of domestic violence, you may ask the city or county prosecuting attorney to file a criminal complaint. You also have the right to file a petition in superior, district or municipal court requesting an order for protection from domestic abuse, which could include any of the following:

an order restraining your abuser from further acts of abuse;
an order directing your abuser to leave your household;
an order preventing your abuser from entering your residence, school, business or place of employment;
an order awarding you or the other parents custody of or visitation with your minor child or children; and
an order restraining your abuser from molesting or interfering with minor children in your custody. The forms needed to obtain a protection order are available in any municipal, district or superior court.

Skagit DV&SAS
24-HOUR HOTLINE

WA STATE HOTLINE

NATIONAL HOTLINE

1-800-726-6010

1-800-562-6025

1-800-799-SAFE