A court can order the person who hurts you to stay away. Each state has its own protection order, and there is free help to find your way.
This is general information, not legal advice. Each service was checked against its own website on 7 November 2026. Rules change: read what the service itself says before you decide.
Who can help
Protection orders explained (WomensLaw.org)
Explains restraining or protection orders: what a judge can order, like stay-away and no-contact, and how orders are enforced.
Who it is for Anyone being abused who wants a court order to keep the abuser away. Each state has its own rules, names and forms.
First step Choose your state at the top of the page to read your state's protection order laws.
Good to know If the abuser breaks the order, in most states you can ask the police or the court to enforce it.
VictimConnect Resource Center
A confidential helpline and online chat for victims of any crime, with information about your rights, options and local services.
Who it is for Victims and survivors of any type of crime. You can stay anonymous.
First step Use the online chat, or search their resource map for local and national help.
Good to know They can only help while you are physically safe. If you are in danger right now, call 911 first.
Address Confidentiality Programs (Safe at Home)
State programs that give you a free substitute mailing address so your real address stays out of public records.
Who it is for People whose safety is at risk from domestic violence, stalking, harassment or rape. Most states have a program, but not all, and rules differ.
First step Find your state on the national list. You usually enroll in person with a program counselor, often at a victim assistance center.
Good to know In January 2026 there was no program in Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota or Wyoming.
VINE / VINELink (custody and case alerts)
Free alerts by text, email or phone when an offender's custody status or criminal case changes, such as a release from jail.
Who it is for Crime victims who want to know if the abuser is released or moved. Only where the state or county uses VINE.
First step Choose your state on the site to get started, then register for alerts.
Good to know Not every state or county uses it, and the site says its information is not guaranteed. Do not rely on it alone for your safety.
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Other topics
- Money to live on in the USMoney help in the US when you leave an abusive partner: public benefits, help finding benefits and crime victim compensation.
- A safe place to live in the USSomewhere safe to stay in the US when you leave violence: shelters, your housing rights in federally assisted housing, and keeping your address private.
- Free legal help in the USFree legal help in the US when you live with domestic violence: legal aid finders and plain-language legal information by state.
- Children and custody in the USHelp for children and parents in the US after domestic violence: custody information and child abuse help.
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- Health care and help after sexual assault in the USHealth care in the US after abuse or sexual assault: sexual assault exams, health centers and support lines.
- Help for particular groups in the USHelp in the US for men, LGBTQ+ people, older people, Native communities, Deaf people and teens, from services that know your situation.