WomensLaw

Today is . 🧡🌱 Finding time to rest and recharge can be so tough, but taking care of ourselves is essential for many of us, whether we're survivors of abuse or not. What are some of your favorite ways to relax and practice self-care?

[Image description: A white letterboard reading "Self Care" sits on a pile of colorful paper leaves and flowers. NNEDV logo below. The NNEDV logo consists of 66 small house shapes arranged in a large house shape, and text reading: "NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Today is National Financial Awareness Day and a great time to brush up on the signs of financial abuse. Learn more and find resources if you're worried about yourself or a loved one: https://bit.ly/3SCGTM5

[Image description: Against a dark teal background, white text reads: "What is financial abuse? What are the signs to look out for? Forcing you to give them access to your financial accounts. Controlling all the household finances. Giving you an “allowance." Preventing you from working. Harassing you about any money you spend. Intentionally ruining your credit. Find more examples on WomensLaw.org." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If you're a victim of spoofing (when an abuser hides their phone number in order to call and harass you), there are resources that can help you stay safe. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4dlUXDv

[Image description: Against a dark green background, white text reads: "What resources exist if I am a victim of spoofing? A lawyer can help you understand the laws that protect you in your state or territory. A domestic violence advocate can help you consider options and make a safety plan. NNEDV’s Safety Net team has more information at https://bit.ly/4dkY3rx. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."

If you're a survivor taking your abuser to court, you may wonder whether you can use recordings as evidence in your case. Learn when this may (and may not) be allowed: https://bit.ly/46EEace

[Image description: Against a dark orange background, white text reads: "I'm a survivor pursuing a court case. Can recordings be used as evidence? Generally, any recordings made illegally cannot be used in court. If you have recordings that were made legally, you may have to prove their authenticity to a judge. Consider speaking with a lawyer first if you want to use recordings as evidence. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

We're proud to provide free, easy-to-understand legal resources to abuse survivors of all genders, in both English and Spanish. Check us out!

💚 Free legal information: WomensLaw.org

💚 Talk to an attorney for free: Hotline.WomensLaw.org

[Image description: Against a light green background are a laptop and phone open to the WomensLaw.org homepage. Green text above reads: "WomensLaw supports all survivors, no matter their s*x or gender."]

Domestic violence victims of any s*x or gender deserve help and support, and male victims may sometimes worry that services aren't available for them. Learn where you can reach out when you're ready: https://bit.ly/3yt2MIv

[Image description: Against a dark pink background, white text reads: "I’m a male victim of abuse. Where can I receive help and support? Most local domestic violence programs support survivors of any s*x or gender. There are several national organizations specifically for male survivors. You can also contact your state or territory domestic violence coalition. Find them at bit.ly/2HzYamr. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

New Resource! 📝 We have a new Quick Guide for immigrant survivors of abuse who want to know more about their legal options, in both English and Korean. Check them out, and thanks to our partners at KFAM for all your support with this project: https://bit.ly/3KBBgKP

[Image description: Next to a cell phone with the WomensLaw.org homepage displayed, text reads: "New Resources! Immigration Options for Victims of Abuse (English). 폭력 피해자를 위한 이민 구제 유형 (Korean)." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Depending on your state or territory, an abuser posting (or threatening to post) intimate images of you may qualify you for a restraining order against them. Learn how the laws work where you live: https://bit.ly/3zKJP4d

[Image description: Against a dark teal background, white text reads: "Can I request a restraining order if an abuser has posted an intimate image of me online? In some states and territories, posting (or threatening to post) intimate images without consent may be a crime. Depending on your state or territory, this behavior may also qualify you for a restraining order. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Today is . The wage gap harms mothers, their families, and their communities. When moms earn less, that means less money to pay rent and put food on the table. For moms experiencing domestic violence, it means a harder path toward safety for themselves and their children. Join the social media storm at 2:00 ET today!

[Image description: An illustration of an adult holding a child and working on a laptop. Text reads: "When women earn less, families suffer. Nearly 1/2 of mothers are the breadwinner or co-breadwinner for their family. Source: Institute for Women's Policy Research, 2020. Women Employed."

While s*xting can be a fun and consensual part of a healthy relationships, some abusers choose to use s*xting in order to threaten, harass, and control a victim. Learn more and find resources for yourself or someone you know: https://bit.ly/3W7RNMl

[Image description: Against a dark green background, white text reads: "What are some ways an abuser could use s*xting to harm me? Sharing your pictures or videos, even if they were originally sent consensually. Forcing you to send them pictures or videos, even if you don’t want to. Harassing you by sending you unwanted pictures or videos of themselves. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Today is . 💛 Would you know how to support a friend, family member, or co-worker who might be experiencing abuse? Learn more: https://bit.ly/3gddmEH

If your abuser is using technology in order to threaten, harass, or otherwise harm you, there are laws that can protect you and help you stay safe. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3WteIDi

[Image description: Against a dark orange background, white text reads: "Which laws protect me from cyber-surveillance? Electronic surveillance laws, if an abuser is using connected devices to abuse you. Invasion of privacy or voyeurism laws, if an abuser is watching or recording you. Computer crime laws, if an abuser is accessing your devices without consent. Harassment or stalking laws, if an abuser is causing you distress or fear. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If you're an undocumented survivor of abuse applying for a U visa, it can be helpful to plan for all possible outcomes, including if your petition is denied. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3zmmTs1

[Image description: Against a dark pink background, white text reads: "I'm an undocumented survivor of abuse. If my U visa petition gets denied, will I be deported? If U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services denies your petition, your status is the same as it was before you applied. You will not automatically be deported, but you may want to consider contacting an attorney and creating a safety plan. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

New Resources! 📝 We have a new Quick Guide for domestic violence survivors pursuing criminal cases against abusers, in both English and Korean. Check them out, and thanks to our partners at KFAM for all your help with this project: https://bit.ly/3KBBgKP

[Image description: Next to a cell phone with the WomensLaw.org homepage displayed, text reads: "New Resources! A Survivor’s Guide to a Domestic Violence Criminal Case (English). 가정 폭력 형사 사건에 대한 생존자 가이드 (Korean)." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If your abuser is in the military, and you're not granted a military protective order, there are other options you can pursue for your own safety. Learn more about them: https://bit.ly/4cy1YAA

[Image description: Against a dark pink background, white text reads: "My abuser is in the military. What can I do if I am not granted a military protective order? You may still be eligible for a civil protection order, issued by the civil court in the state or territory where you live. It may also be possible to escalate your request for up the chain of command, starting with the superior in command. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Today is the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons ( ). Domestic violence and trafficking often intersect (and may happen at the same time), with abusers and traffickers using many of the same tools of power and control. Learn more about trafficking and how T visas can help victims: https://bit.ly/3zKv2qm

[Image description: Against a dark teal background, white text reads: "What is trafficking and how does it relate to T visas? Traffickers control victims through tactics like threats, violence, taking their passport, controlling their money, and more. T visas allow victims to live and work in the U.S. Then, they can apply for lawful permanent residence (a “green card”). Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If you have a military protective order against an abuser in the military, it's important to know that the order will generally last until a commanding officer decides to change or end it. This can be helpful for your safety-planning process. Keep reading: https://bit.ly/3W1alil

[Image description: Against a dark green background, white text reads: "My abuser is in the military. How long does a military protective order last? It lasts indefinitely, meaning that it doesn’t have a specific end date included. A commanding officer may review, change, or end (terminate) it at any time. If the abuser is transferred to a new command, the new command (and civilian authorities) must be notified. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Today is . 💙 All families deserve to live in peace and safety, and parents who are experiencing domestic violence can face additional challenges and trauma in keeping their children safe from abuse.

WomensLaw has information and resources if you're concerned about yourself or someone you know: https://bit.ly/2S4Jgr0

[Image description: Across four graphics, white and orange text against a pink background reads: "Safety Planning If You're Experiencing Abuse and You Have Children. Plan what you'll tell your children. Remind them that abuse is never okay, and that it’s not their fault. Make sure they know where to go and what to do if they are in danger. Tell them that their priority is to stay safe, not to protect you from violence. Weigh your legal options. Speak with a lawyer specializing in custody if you plan to move with your children, or if you can't safely bring them with you after leaving the abuser. Visit WomensLaw.org to learn more about custody laws in your state or territory. Support your children. Listen to them, check in with them, and think of ways to help them reduce stress and build positive coping skills. Connect them with resources like therapy or support groups. Contact WomensLaw or a domestic violence hotline or shelter for additional support." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos at bottom of each graphic, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If your abusive partner is in the military, it can be helpful to know some of the repercussions they can face, including discharge, reduction in rank, forfeiture of pay, and more. Keep reading: https://bit.ly/4cy1YR6

[Image description: Against a dark orange background, white text reads: "What are some possible punishments that a commander can bring against a Service member who commits abuse? The Office of Special Trial Counsel decides whether an offense should be tried by a general or special court-martial. If not, the offense will be referred to the abuser’s commanding officer, whose punishments can include discharge, reduced rank, forfeiture of pay, and more. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Today is the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The provides important protections for people with disabilities, including domestic violence survivors with disabilities, whose partners may choose to weaponize their disabilities in order to hurt and control them. Learn more and find resources: https://bit.ly/4daVQhX

[Image description: Against a dark orange background, white text reads: "What forms of abuse are unique to individuals with disabilities? Interfering with a victim’s mobility devices, communication devices, or service animals. Taking away a victim’s medication, or forcing medication against their will. Neglecting a victim’s personal care or hygiene, if the abuser is also a caretaker. Keeping a victim from building community with other people with disabilities. Find more examples on WomensLaw.org." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Guns and abuse are a deadly mix. Even if an abuser hasn't been convicted of a crime, and even if a survivor doesn't have a protective order, there are still mechanisms to remove guns from abusers in order to keep survivors safe. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3VIDy0m

[Image description: Against a dark pink background, white text reads: "I don't have a protective order, and my abuser has not been convicted of a crime. Can they still own a gun? There are circumstances where it’s still illegal for an abuser to own a gun, like a dishonorable military discharge. Guns and abusers can be a deadly combination. Consider making a safety plan for yourself, or talking to an advocate. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If your abuser was given notice of a protective order hearing and chose not to attend, it's possible that any guns they own can still be removed under federal law. This can be a critical safety step to keep survivors safe from gun violence. Read more: https://bit.ly/3W1Je6M

[Image description: Against a dark teal background, white text reads: "My abuser did not show up for a protective order hearing. Can their gun(s) still be taken away? If the abuser was given notice of the hearing and chose not to attend, their gun(s) may still be taken away. However, if no hearing was scheduled, or if the abuser wasn't given notice, firearm removal laws may not apply. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Under the Violence Against Women Act ( ) survivors of any gender cannot be terminated from federal housing due to an abuser's violence against them, even if the abuser is evicted. Learn more about your options if you're concerned about your situation: https://bit.ly/3xELIPm

[Image description: Against a dark green background, white text reads: "Will my Section 8 voucher be terminated if the abuser is evicted? Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), survivors can’t be terminated from federal housing due to abuse. Through a “family breakup,” a public housing authority can evict an abuser while allowing a survivor to stay. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Unfortunately, some immigrant survivors of violence may have their asylum requests denied. Learn more about other options you have even when this happens, and how you can plan for your safety during the process: https://bit.ly/3VBWrSw

[Image description: Against a dark orange background, white text reads: "What if my asylum request is denied? If U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services denies your request, you will appear in court and can request again. If the court denies you, you will be issued an order of removal, which you can appeal. You may have other options, like a U visa, a T visa, or a VAWA self-petition. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Today is . ❤️ Some abusers weaponize social stigma in order to hurt and control their partners living with HIV, and this is unacceptable. Learn more and find resources for you or someone you know: https://bit.ly/3xdxwti

[Image description: Against a dark pink background, white text reads: "I'm living with HIV/AIDS. How could someone use my status to abuse me? Threatening to reveal your status. Belittling you, or making you feel guilty or unwanted due to your status. Using your status as an excuse to hurt, isolate, and control you. Tampering with your medicine or denying you access to medical care. Find more examples on WomensLaw.org." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If you're an immigrant survivor of violence, and you plan to ask for asylum after crossing the border into the United States, you deserve safety and support during this process. Learn more about what to expect: https://bit.ly/3L1eD30

[Image description: Against a dark teal background, white text reads: "If I plan on coming into the United States by crossing the border, how do I ask for asylum? Customs and Border Protection should ask if you fear persecution in another country and offer a “credible fear interview.” However, the government frequently changes this process, and it’s important to consult with a lawyer if you can. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If you're a trafficking survivor with T visa status, you may be eligible to receive federal benefits that can help you stay safe and rebuild stability in your life. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3W2wmgL

[Image description: Against a dark green background, white text reads: "I'm a trafficking survivor. Which federal benefits are available to me? With continued presence certification, approved T visa status, or a letter of eligibility (if you're under 18), you may receive federally funded health care, financial help, housing, and other benefits. Before seeking benefits, talk to your attorney or advocate about your safety. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If you're a trafficking survivor applying for a T visa, it's important to know what a "law enforcement agency (LEA) endorsement" is, and whether you need one. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3RL9pvW

[Image description: Against a dark pink background, white text reads: "I'm a trafficking survivor. What do I need to know about the LEA endorsement in my T visa application? T visa applicants are encouraged to submit a “law enforcement agency (LEA) endorsement” (Form I-914, Supplement B). This form proves that you are a victim of severe trafficking and have complied with reasonable law enforcement requests. Visit WomensLaw.org to find additional information or to speak with an attorney for free on the WomensLaw Email Hotline." WomensLaw and NNEDV logos below, reading: "WomensLaw.org a project of NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

Happy birthday to , one of WomensLaw's sister teams at The National Network to End Domestic Violence! 🎉💛 We're proud to work across teams to help abuse victims understand their legal options, especially when it comes to online and tech-facilitated abuse.

Happy birthday to our project! 🎉 We're celebrating 24 years working at the intersection of technology and abuse, addressing how it impacts the safety, privacy, accessibility, and civil rights of victims. Help our team celebrate with a birthday gift: https://bit.ly/34f6eCD

[Image description: Orange background with multicolored confetti. White text in center reads: "Happy Birthday, Safety Net!" with NNEDV logo below. The NNEDV logo consists of 66 small house shapes arranged in a large house shape, and text reading: "NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

If you're a trafficking survivor, it's important to know the difference between having "continued presence" and having "T visa status," so you can plan for your own safety. An attorney can also help you out. Keep reading: https://bit.ly/3RL9oYU