Domestic Violence

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What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence and emotional abuse are behaviors used by one person in a relationship to control the other. Intimate partners may be:

Married / not married / separated / divorced
Dating /engaged / formerly dating or engaged
Heterosexual / homosexual
Living together / formerly living together
Co-parents of a child
Adult / minor

You have the right to be safe and comfortable in your home and personal life. No one has the right to hit, threaten, or abuse you. Men, women, children, elders and pets can all be victims of domestic violence. Children who witness domestic violence in their home are at greater risk to be victim or abusers in future intimate partner relationships.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, now is the time to start protecting yourself. Take the next step and make the phone call to law enforcement, advocacy, a friend or to a shelter.

If you need help:

IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 9-1-1
Contact the San Diego Sheriff’s Department at (858) 565-5200. (Non emergency line)
Call the San Diego County Domestic Violence 24-hour hotline 1-888-DVLINKS (385-4657) for emergency assistance or ongoing needs.
Find a safe place to stay or start safety planning. Find an emergency shelter or other housing options available.

Seek medical attention from a doctor or hospital emergency room. Ask the staff to photograph your injuries and keep detailed records in case you decide to take legal action.

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