The Domestic Violence & Special Victims Section (DVSV) seeks to improve safety for survivors of domestic violence, survivors of sexual offenses, and vulnerable crime victims. DSVS’ work protects survivors and vulnerable victims.

Protections for Survivors of Domestic Violence

  • DVSV represents survivors of intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual assault, and stalking in obtaining Civil Protection Orders (CPOs) and Anti-Stalking Orders (ASOs).
  • DVSV prosecutes violations of CPOs and ASOs.
  • DVSV represents petitioners seeking Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) to remove firearms from individuals who pose a significant risk of harm to themselves or others.
  • DVSV partners with other public and private agencies to staff the District’s Domestic Violence Intake Centers, which serve as entry points for survivors of intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual assault, and stalking who are seeking legal protection.

Protections for Survivors of Sexual Offenses

  • DVSV handles prosecutions of sex offenses and intimate partner violence committed by juveniles.
  • DVSV handles adult prosecutions of indecent exposure offenses involving children or directed at a specific person.
  • DVSV partners with the multi-disciplinary team responsible for HOPE Court--a specialty court in Family Court that offers an alternative to traditional prosecution for young people who are at risk of being sexually exploited.

Protections for Vulnerable Victims

  • DVSV handles prosecutions of any crime committed by juveniles against vulnerable victims.
  • DVSV represents Adult Protective Services in obtaining guardians and conservators for incapacitated, vulnerable adults who are being abused, neglected, or exploited, or are self-neglecting.

Coordinated Community Respons

DVSV participates in multiple interagency efforts to coordinate and improve the District’s response to crime victims, including D.C. TROV (District’s Collaborative Training & Response for Older Victims); the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board; VAN (Victim Assistance Network); SART (Sexual Assault Response Team) and the Multi-Disciplinary Team for child sexual abuse.

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