Law Articles

Return to Law Dictionary Index

Should I call the police if I am being abused?

Domestic violence is against the law, no matter what your legal status here is. The police are not supposed to turn you in to CIS if you are calling to report domestic violence. Almost all police departments follow this rule. However, you might want to contact a domestic violence organization in your area first, to find out how the police in your community handle domestic violence calls from immigrants.

Remember that you have the right to keep your immigration status private. You do not have to tell the police or a shelter whether or not you are here legally.

If you call the police, they can escort you and your children safely out of the house and often will take you to a safe place. The police may arrest your abuser if they believe a crime has been committed. If your abuser is arrested, he may be released in as soon as two hours. You can use this time to find a safe place to go.

If the police officer does not speak your language, try to find someone other than your child or abuser to interpret for you.

Always ask the police to complete a report about the incident. Be sure to get an incident report number so you can get a copy of the report. Also ask for and write down the name and badge number of the officer making the report.

If you seek help at a domestic violence shelter, a rape crisis center or a courthouse, CIS is not supposed to use this against you as a reason to start a removal proceeding.

Return to Criminal Law

Return to Law Dictionary Index