Survivors of dating/domestic violence have several avenues for redress, if they choose:
-
Hearing before the University Judiciary Committee (for UVa Students)
Each remedy has different advantages and disadvantages:
-
Criminal prosecution might result in imprisonment of the batterer, or perhaps enforced batterers group counseling. Or, it might simply result in probation--it all depends on the circumstances and the judge who hears the case. It also might mean that the batterer will be forced into accountability, which may be the only workable approach.
- Orders of protection work well if the batterer respects authority and is fearful of being arrested. But if he or she doesn't care about that, then it's only as good as the paper it's written on. It does require an arrest, however, if there is a violation of the order. They can be useful tools, and may be worth the time and effort to secure one.
- Civil suits may be an option for collecting damages and recovering costs relating to moving, therapy, and so on, if the batterer has any financial resources at all. One doesn't have to sue for money, however, it's possible to sue to force the abuser to get therapy, to return certain items, and so on.
- The UJC has rarely, if ever, heard a domestic/dating violence case.
But the committee members are aware that this is a possibility. The
consequences, if the student is found in violation of the Standards
of Conduct, can range from a letter of reprimand to expulsion. It might
be an avenue to consider. The UJC hearing can be pursued whether or
not criminal or civil action is taken.