Domestic violence resources in DFW: Where to go and what your rights are

If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation in DFW, here are the real resources. No judgment, just information.

Immediate help:

• National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (24/7, multilingual)
• Genesis Women's Shelter (Dallas): 214-946-HELP (4357) — shelter, counseling, legal assistance
• SafeHaven of Tarrant County: 1-877-701-SAFE (7233) — shelter, 24/7 hotline
• The Family Place (Dallas): 214-941-1991 — emergency shelter, counseling, legal
• Denton County Friends of the Family: 940-382-7273

Legal protections in Texas:

• Protective Order: Under Texas Family Code Chapter 85, you can petition the court for a protective order. The abuser is ordered to stay away from you, your home, your workplace, and your children's school.
• Magistrate's Order of Emergency Protection (MOEP): Issued automatically at the time of arrest for family violence. Lasts 31-91 days.
• Filing is free. Texas Family Code 81.002 waives all fees for protective orders in DV cases.

How to get a protective order:

1. Go to Dallas County Family Court (George Allen Sr. Courts Building) or Tarrant County Family Court
2. No attorney required (but organizations above provide free legal help)
3. Temporary order can be issued same day
4. Full hearing within 14 days

Safety planning:

• Keep important documents (ID, birth certificates, medications) in a go-bag
• Have a code word with a trusted friend or family member
• The National DV Hotline can help create a personalized safety plan

Sources:

• Texas Family Code Chapters 81-88 — Protective Orders
• Genesis Women's Shelter — genesisshelter.org
• SafeHaven of Tarrant County — safehaventc.org
• The Family Place — familyplace.org
• National Domestic Violence Hotline — thehotline.org

You don't have to stay. Help exists. It's free.

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