Domestic Violence Laws

• Violence Against Woman Act (VAWA)

( 18 U.S.C.A. 2265)

• Passed in 1994 and amended in 1996.

In 1994 and 1996, Congress also passed changes to the Gun Control Act making it a federal crime in certain situations for domestic abusers to possess guns.

• VAWA

Recognizes that domestic violence is a national crime and that federal laws can help an overburdened state and local criminal justice system.

The majority of domestic violence cases will continue to be handled by your state and local authorities.

In some cases, however, the federal laws and benefits gained from applying these laws, may be the most appropriate course of action.