Domestic and sexual violence is a crime. Here are important phone numbers and contact information for domestic violence victims.

Here's what you can do when the police arrive:

• Describe what happened in detail. Be sure to show any injuries or damaged property.
• Tell them about any witnesses.
• Tell them about past violence and any guns or other weapons the abuser may have.
• Show them any court documents you have, such as a Protective Order.
• Ask them for the case number or the report and a phone number so you can follow up.

What the police may do:

• Make an arrest if there is probable cause to believe that an assault and battery against a family or household member or another crime has occurred.
• Ask for an Emergency Protective Order if the officer believes you are still in danger.

You have the right to request:

• An Emergency Protective Order from a magistrate that lasts 72 hours or until 5 p.m. the next day that the Domestic Relations Court is in session, whichever is longer. To continue the protection of a protective order, you must seek a Preliminary Protective Order by filing a petition with the Court Services Unit (540-382-5745).
• A warrant directly from a magistrate if the police do not make an arrest.
• Money for expenses, such as medical bills, incurred as a result of the crime (your local victim/witness coordinator can give you the forms).
• Transportation from a police officer to a hospital or shelter. However, police are not required to do so.

Emergency Protective Orders:

• A protective order is a legal order that prohibits further abuse and/or contact between parties.
• You do not have to obtain a criminal warrant to get a protective order.
• The abuser will not be arrested or charged with a crime just because you get a protective order.
• It is only enforceable if it has been served on the abuser.

Court-Issued Protective Orders:

• The abuser to stay away from you and to stop assaulting you and others in your home or family.
• The abuser to leave the home; provide suitable housing for you.
• The abuser to get counseling.
• Temporary possession of a vehicle to you, if jointly owned.
• Temporary custody and visitation of your children to you by the judge at the Protective Order hearing.

If you've been sexually assaulted, you may:

• Go to the police department or hospital.
• Contact the WRC for options and Emergency Advocacy services.
• Contact the WRC for counseling and Legal Advocacy.