What is domestic violence?
A woman can apply to the Magistrate for protection orders, residence orders, monetary relief, custody orders and compensation. Interim and ex parte orders can be made in urgent cases.
Protection Officers and service providers can help record a Domestic Incident Report. Legal proceedings under the DV Act are separate from any criminal complaint.
Who may need this service
- Women facing abuse in a shared household
- Women denied access to the shared household
- Women needing monetary support urgently
- Persons responding to a DV complaint
Legal framework
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005: section 12 (application), 18 (protection orders), 19 (residence orders), 20 (monetary relief), 21 (custody), 22 (compensation), 23 (interim and ex parte orders).
Documents generally required
- Any evidence of abuse (medical records, photos, messages)
- Details of the shared household
- Income and expense information
- Children's details
Document requirements may vary depending on the applicable legal route, individual circumstances and the concerned authority.
Procedure
- Safety first. If in danger, call 112 immediately.
- Consultation. Assess reliefs needed.
- Application. File under section 12 with supporting documents.
- Interim relief. Seek urgent interim orders.
- Hearing and orders. Final orders after hearing.
Common problems we see
- Being forced out of the shared household
- Loss of access to money or documents
How an advocate can help
- Prepare the application
- Seek urgent interim relief
- Represent either party fairly
Delhi courts and NCR
In Delhi, family courts sit in the district court complexes. We assist in matters at Tis Hazari Courts, Saket Courts, Patiala House Courts, Karkardooma Courts, Rohini Courts, Dwarka Courts, and in NCR at the district courts of Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad. The correct court depends on jurisdiction rules for your case.
Related services
Legal guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file under the DV Act?
Can I stay in the matrimonial home?
Is the DV Act a criminal case?
Disclaimer: This page gives general information about the law and procedure as understood at the time of writing. It is not legal advice for your situation. Requirements may vary depending on the parties' circumstances, applicable law, jurisdiction and the concerned authority, and rules and forms change from time to time. Please consult an advocate before acting.