Domestic Violence Abuse FAQ

Q: WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?
Domestic violence occurs when a person uses physical or psychological  abuse, threats, intimidation, or  harassment to control another person  in a family, dating, household.

Q: WHAT CAN I DO IF I AM ABUSED?
You may file a complaint if the abuser's acts constitute a crime. You also  may request an order of protection and seek help from one of various  agencies that offer free or low-cost  services to victims of domestic  violence.

Q: WHAT IS AN ORDER OF PROTECTION?
It is an order prohibiting the abuser from threatening or harassing you.  It also may grant you temporary  possession of your children and your  home.

Q: DO I QUALIFY FOR AN ORDER PROTECTION?
You qualify if the abuser is your spouse, ex-spouse, or anyone else to  whom you are related by marriage or  prior marriage. You also qualify if  the abuser is someone with whom you have had a child, with whom you  live or have lived.

Q: HOW DO I FILE A CRIMINAL COMPLAINT?
Contact the police immediately and ask them to  make out a report.  Depending on the circumstances, the police may arrest the abuser.  If no  arrest is made, ask the police to explain how you can begin the  criminal process or contact the County Attorney’s Office at the  courthouse to arrange an appointment.

Q: HOW LONG WILL THE ORDER OF PROTECTION BE IN EFFECT?
The order of protection that you obtain at your initial court  appearance usually will last up to one (1) year or until     otherwise  modified by the Judge.

Q: WHAT CAN I DO IF THE ORDER IS VIOLATED?
Call the police immediately. The abuser may be arrested and charged with  the additional offense of violating the order of protection.  (It is a  good idea to keep a copy of the order in a safe place so you can show it  to the police in case of a violation.)

Q: IF CONVICTED OF DOMESTIC ASSAULT, WHAT PENALTIES WILL THE ABUSER FACE?
Criminal penalties vary depending on the specific charges and  circumstances. Sentences may include probation, BEP, court supervision,  community service, counseling, or a jail or prison term.

Q: HOW DO I DROP A NO CONTACT ORDER ISSUED IN A CRIMINAL CASE?
Attend one (1) session with an advocate, bring a letter signed by the counselor stating you have done this and are aware of services; and present to the Clerk of Court (BHC Courthouse, 316 E. 5th Street, Waterloo, 1st Floor). The judge has the final say as to whether or not the No Contact Order will be modified or lifted.

Q: WHEN CAN I MEET WITH A JUDGE ABOUT THE NO CONTACT ORDER?
The Judge will determine if they need to meet with you. You must submit a request with the Clerk of Court (BHC Courthouse, 316 E. 5th Street, Waterloo, 1st Floor) on any changes on the No Contact Order,  the Judge will review and make a determination.

Q: WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?

County Attorney’s Office
316 East 5th Street, B-1 Courthouse Building, Waterloo, Iowa 50703
Phone: 319-833-3001
Fax:    319-833-3020
Email: attorney@blackhawkcounty.iowa.gov

Domestic Abuse Response Team
715 Mulberry Street,
Waterloo, Iowa   50703
Phone: 319-291-4331

Batterer’s Education Program
P.O. Box 1725 Dubuque, Iowa 52004
Phone: 1-800-485-8151 OR: 319-485-8151