States With the Toughest Domestic Violence Laws

Domestic abuse is an abusive behavior that affects children and adults everywhere. It can come in many forms among them being sexual, physical, emotional or verbal abuse. Most states in the United States have strict laws concerning domestic violence. However, there are a few who are considered to have stricter laws than others.  

Connecticut

Since 1986, Connecticut has been working diligently to make its laws against domestic violence tougher. They have given more rights to the victims and instated tougher penalties for those that are convicted of domestic violence. Among the many rights the victims have now is the ability to take off of work with no penalty to receive help or doctors care. They also have the right to void a rental agreement with just 30 days’ notice. Recently implemented was the ability to use convictions in other states to decide sentencing in a domestic violence case. As of right now depending on your history and the severity of the charge an abuser can get anywhere from a misdemeanor on up to a class B felony with a non suspendable sentence for the crime.

Florida

Florida also has very tough laws against domestic violence starting with minimal jail time and community service for lesser offenses. They also have in place and advocacy program for immigrants that are victims of domestic violence and strict laws on human trafficking.

California

California is one of the tougher states on domestic violence with sentences that carry 5 years in prison, huge fines and 52 weeks of counseling. California also has a no drop policy, which means the state will take up the charges if the victim decides to drop them.