Domestic Violence & Police Response in Virginia
What survivors may expect when Virginia police respond to a DV report.
Understanding Arrests and Court Involvement in Domestic Violence Cases
Scene Safety Steps
Law enforcement officers responding to a domestic violence call first ensure the scene is safe for everyone involved. They may separate the individuals to gather information and assess the situation. This helps prevent further conflict and allows officers to understand what happened without interference.
Arrest Situations
An arrest may occur if officers find probable cause that an act of domestic violence took place. The decision to arrest depends on the evidence and circumstances at the scene. Sometimes both parties are interviewed, and if there is clear evidence indicating one person committed violence, an arrest may be made immediately.
Magistrate Involvement
After an arrest, the case often moves to a magistrate or judge who reviews the charges and decides on conditions such as bail or release. A magistrate may also schedule further hearings and decide if protective orders should be put in place to limit contact between the parties involved.
No-Contact Conditions
No-contact orders are legal instructions that prohibit one person from contacting or approaching another. These conditions are often included when domestic violence charges are filed and may be issued by a magistrate. They aim to reduce the risk of further harm while the legal process continues.