It is a crime for any person to cause you physical injury or harm. EVEN IF THAT PERSON IS A MEMBER OR FORMER MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY OR HOUSEHOLD.

PLEASE TELL THE INVESTIGATING PEACE OFFICER: If you, your child, or any other household resident has been injured: OR If you feel you are going to be in danger when the officer leaves or later.

YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: ASK the local prosecutor to file a criminal complaint against the person committing family violence; and APPLY to a court for an order to protect you (you should consult a legal aid office, a prosecuting attorney, or a private attorney). If a family or household member assaults you and is arrested, you may request that a magistrate's order for emergency protection be issued. Please inform the investigating officer if you want an order for emergency protection. You need not be present when the order is issued. You can not be charged a fee by a court in connection with filing, serving , or entering a protective order, for example, the court can enter a order that:

1: The abuser not commit further acts of violence.
2: The abuser not threaten, harass, or contact you at home.
3: Directs the abuser to leave your household
4: Establishes temporary custody of the children and directs the abuser not to interfere with the child(ren) and /or property.

A VIOLATION OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF COURT-ORDERED PROTECTION (Such as (1) and (2) above) MAY BE A FELONY.

Battered women's shelters were started by people like you - those who recognize that violence in the home is a real danger.

Shelters are private agencies where all services are kept confidential and you decide what is the best direction for you to take with your life.

Available 24- hours by telephone, shelter staff and volunteers can help you sort out your situation, When space is available and shelter is needed, they can take you and your child(ren). There are NO FEES and there is practical, real help.

CALL THESE NUMBERS IF YOU NEED PROTECTION OR ASSISTANCE:
(830)372-2780 OR (830)372-5970 24 HR CRISIS LINE 1-800-834-2033
GUADALUPE VALLEY FAMILY VIOLENCE SHELTER
PO BOX 1302 SEGUIN, TX. 78155

© GVFVS 2005