Who is required to protect victims of family violence?

Law enforcement and judicial officers are required to protect victims of family violence due to their legal obligations and responsibilities in ensuring public safety and enforcing the law. In many jurisdictions, including Texas, these officers are trained to recognize indicators of family violence and are mandated by law to take specific actions, such as providing immediate assistance, ensuring the victim's safety, and facilitating access to resources and support services.

Their role also includes the authority to make arrests when incidents of family violence occur, issue protective orders, and assist victims in the legal process. This is rooted in the recognition that family violence can escalate quickly and may pose a significant risk to the victims involved.

While social workers, family members, friends, and community organizations play vital supportive roles in helping and advocating for victims, the direct legal authority and duty to act in cases of family violence are primarily vested in law enforcement and judicial officers. Thus, they hold a critical position in the overall response to family violence, ensuring victims are protected under the law.