In most areas, officers who respond to a domestic violence call are required to provide information on available resources in the area. Here in our city we provide a statement of rights for victims of domestic abuse that explains the domestic violence laws as well as orders of protection. It also contains a list of agencies in the area which provide some service for victims of domestic violence.

If you are a victim of domestic violence in Tennessee: You may file a criminal complaint with the District Attorney General.

You may request an order of protection.

A protection order may include the following:
An order preventing your abuser from committing further domestic abuse against you;
An order requiring your abuser to leave your household; 
An order preventing your abuser from harassing you or contacting you for any reason; 
An order giving you or the other parent custody of or visitation with your minor child or children;
An order requiring the abuser to pay money to support you and the minor children if the abuser is legally obligated to do so;
An order preventing your abuser from stalking you.

In Tennessee, a law enforcement officer is required to offer transportation for the victim to a place of safety, unless it is impractical; in which case the officer shall offer to arrange for transportation as soon as feasible. Also, the officer is required to offer transportation for the victim to get a warrant and advise the victim of shelter or other services in the community. Per T.C.A. 36-3-619

In Tennessee, if you have an order of protection against someone and a law enforcement officer has reasonable cause to believe that person has violated the order, the person in violation of the order can be arrested for the violation without a warrant.

home | phone | employment