Domestic violence statistics reveal the scope of intimate partner violence in California and the United States. Understanding the frequency of domestic violence, how California law defines it, and what legal protections are available helps survivors and their families navigate the family law and criminal justice systems effectively.
Domestic Violence Statistics in California
Domestic violence statistics in California are significant. The California Department of Justice reports hundreds of thousands of domestic violence calls for service annually. Approximately one in three women and one in four men in the United States experience some form of intimate partner violence during their lifetime, according to CDC data. Domestic violence statistics also show that violence is most common in relationships involving controlling behavior, substance abuse, or economic stress — though domestic violence occurs across all socioeconomic, racial, and demographic groups.
How California Law Defines Domestic Violence
California Family Code section 6211 defines domestic violence broadly — including physical abuse, sexual abuse, stalking, harassment, threats, and emotional and psychological abuse — when committed against a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, person with whom the abuser has a dating relationship, or the parent of the abuser's child. Penal Code section 273.5 makes corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant a criminal offense. California law recognizes that domestic violence often does not leave visible physical marks.
Legal Protections — Restraining Orders and Custody
Survivors of domestic violence can obtain emergency protective orders (EPO), temporary restraining orders (TRO), and permanent domestic violence restraining orders (DVRO) through California family court. Family Code section 3044 creates a rebuttable presumption that a parent who has committed domestic violence should not have sole or joint physical or legal custody of a child. This presumption significantly affects custody proceedings when domestic violence is established.
Getting Help
If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224) for immediate support and safety planning. Furubotten Law, APC handles domestic violence restraining order proceedings and custody cases involving domestic violence throughout Orange County and Riverside County. Call (714) 795-3862 for a complimentary case evaluation.