Domestic Violence

Updated December 2006

Domestic violence is a serious problem in the United States. It affects all members of a family, including children, and has serious societal and economic consequences. One study found that as many as one out of five women has been physically assaulted by an intimate partner, and over 1200 women nationwide are murdered each year by an intimate partner. States, businesses and individuals pay millions of dollars every year to address the consequences of domestic violence. NCSL is here to help legislators understand the problems fully and make choices with limited state resources that will help victims achieve safety and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

Enhanced Penalties When Children Witness Domestic Violence Chart - A number of states increase penalties for a perpetrator who commits domestic violence in the presence of children.

Address Confidentiality - Fifteen states have statutes authorizing address confidentiality programs for domestic violence and stalking victims. These laws allow victims to keep their contact information confidential, so perpetrators cannot use public records-like voter registration records-to find them.

When Violence Hits Home: Domestic Abuse & Families - This book is essential for legislators and staff who want to craft meaningful solutions to the problems posed by domestic violence in their communities. This link will provide you with the executive summary and information on how to obtain a copy of this publication.

When Children Witness Domestic Violence - Hundreds of studies have documented the negative effects for children exposed to domestic violence. This LegisBrief examines one potential policy response - increasing penalties for perpetrators.

For more information on domestic violence issues, please contact Stephanie Walton in the Denver office at 303.364.7700 or cyf-info@ncsl.org or either Sheri Steisel or Lee Posey in the D.C. office at 202.624.5400 or fedhumserv-info@ncsl.org