In some cases, victims of domestic violence may decide not to
seek intervention through the Criminal Justice System, nor desire to file a
protective order. She/he may feel that a 'no contact' order or
protective order will not be sufficient within itself to stop the violence,
She/he may feel in heightened danger once charges have been filed or a
protective order served. If she/he feels that his/her safety is in
danger, she/he may want to contact a domestic violence
shelter. Individuals at the shelter can help victims design a safety
plan for home and work, or arrange for the victim and his/her children to stay
at the shelter for a period of time. In addition, Domestic Violence
organizations also often help with financial issues and offer counseling for
domestic violence victims and their children. Finally, some shelters
offer child visitation or exchange centers. In York County and
Poquoson, Avalon offers this service. For more information, contact
Avalon at (757) 258-5051 or Transitions at (757)
723-7774.
If you have been a victim of violence
within a close or intimate relationship, you may be confused and have numerous
questions and concerns. If you would like more information about
domestic violence, please contact the Victim-Witness Assistance Program in your
area. For the York-Poquoson Victim-Witness Assistance Program, call
(757) 890-3402.