NCJ Number
96968
Journal
University of Richmond Law Review Volume: 17 Issue: 3 Dated: (Spring 1983) Pages: 633-660
Date Published
1983
Length
28 pages
Annotation
After reporting on the incidence of spouse abuse in the Nation and Virginia, this paper describes Virginia's response to the problem, considers the legal remedies currently available in that State, and presents a legislative proposal that will enable abuse victims to obtain civil protective orders.
Abstract
The high incidence of spouse abuse nationwide prompts a closer examination of the problem in Virginia. In particular, civil protective orders which have been used effectively in other States should be available to aid abuse victims in Virginia. This civil remedy can supplement and enhance the civil and criminal remedies already available. Such an approach may be helpful to the family by maintaining the abuser in the community under an order of protection, thus permitting him to continue earning income for the family. The Virginia General Assembly should seriously consider enacting this type of legislation to expand court options for responding to the growing problem of domestic violence. Footnotes are provided, and proposed legal amendments are appended. (Author summary)