Domestic violence continues to be one of the highest crimes in America that goes unreported. Women who are battered by a significant other rarely go to the police.In most cases, the courts aren't made aware until significant damage is done, or worse, death occurs. In New York, a new legislation was passed that will toughen the regulations surrounding domestic violence. For starters, domestic violence is no longer considered to be a misdemeanor – it is a felony.

The new legislation also requires judges to reassess the dangers that the defendant faces before selecting a bail amount. It was common for perpetrators to get a low bail, allowing them to get out and cause more harm to the defendant before the trial date. The law has diminished the rights of a husband to control the remains of a spouse he battered. Instead, the court will have control. Then if someone convicted of domestic assault commits another offense (even if it’s low-level) within a five-year period, he or she can be prosecuted again. A domestic violence court will be created for parolees who’ve been convicted.

All police departments in New York will have an internet-based training class that will teach how to handle domestic violence cases.



Domestic Violence is legally defined as cruelty or aggression that is present within an intimate relationship between two persons. A short-term restraining order can be obtained to receive protection for the victims and any children involved. Criminal charges can also be filed against the abuser if the victim chooses to. By law, the abused is allowed to legally fight back.