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It is against the law to assault, harass, or threaten a domestic partner. Proper use of the criminal justice system is a means of making a victim safe.
What is domestic violence under the law?
Domestic violence can be physical as well as emotional. Slapping, hitting, punching, pushing, shoving, pulling a victim’s hair, biting, beating, kicking, throwing a partner, or throwing something at or near the person are all forms of physical abuse. Emotional abuse can include name-calling, mind games, humiliation, intimidation, or threats of bodily harm. Rape and sexual assault can also occur between domestic partners.
How can the law protect you?
There are two categories of legal options available to domestic violence victims. One is civil relief. A victim can go to the local clerk of court's office and file a civil complaint and motion for a domestic violence protective order, also know as a 50-B. Another option is to file appropriate criminal charges at the magistrate’s office, such as: assault on a female, threatening phone calls, stalking, communicating threats, domestic criminal trespass, rape, and sexual assault.
How does a victim advocate assist with domestic violence?
Family Service of the Piedmont offers court advocacy as part of their victim services division and has staff stationed in District Court both in High Point and Greensboro. A victim advocate can assist in understanding the judicial process, accompanying victims to court, providing information on filing a 50-B domestic protective order, and linking with community resources. Another aspect of the victim advocate’s role is to serve as court liaison and representative for the Domestic Violence Intervention Program. D.V.I.P. is a psycho-educational program for offenders. The victim advocate assists with the intake procedure for the program and monitors program compliance.
Family Service of the Piedmont operates a 24-hour crisis line in High Point (889-7273) and Greensboro (274-7273). The crisis line provides access to two emergency battered women’s shelters in Guilford County. A victim can contact Family Service for assistance in making a safety plan, obtaining information about counseling for women and children who have experienced domestic violence, and receiving victim advocacy. Treatment for offenders is also available. 
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