Restraining orders for battered women: Issues of access and efficacy

Janice Grau, Jeffrey Fagan, S. Sandra

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Since the passage of the Pennsylvania Protection from Abuse Act in 1976, many states have enacted legislation to provide civil restraining orders for battered women. These orders, which offer a civil court alternative to criminal sanctions, are courtissued temporary or permanent orders which direct an assailant to refrain from further abusive conduct. Interviews with recipients of restraining orders suggest that the orders are generally ineffective in reducing the rate of abuse or violence. However, they were effective in reducing abuse for women with less serious histories of family violence or where the assailant was less violent in general. They were ineffective in stopping physical violence. Measures to improve restraining order mechanisms should: More clearly codify abuse and violence, improve access for those not married or cohabitating, streamline procedures and shorten waiting periods, address a full range of child-related concerns, strengthen sanctions, and mandate official responses to violations. Additionally, comprehensive legislation is needed to coordinate civil and criminal remedies.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCriminal Justice Politics and Women
Subtitle of host publicationThe Aftermath of Legally Mandated Change
PublisherTaylor and Francis
Pages13-28
Number of pages16
ISBN (Electronic)9781317941736
ISBN (Print)0866563644
Publication statusPublished - Jan 1 2018

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 1985 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • General Social Sciences

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