By Don A. Layton

Domestic violence is a crime which strikes at the very fabric of our communities. As the family has evolved into a hodgepodge of relationships, domestic violence has increased.

Laws have been passed to prevent and punish domestic violence offenders, including federal laws such as the Violence Against Women Act. State laws have created special provisions for domestic violence in TCA 39-13-111. Civil protection has been provided in the Protective Order Procedure found in TCA 36-3-601.

Notwithstanding the best efforts of law enforcement and the legal system, domestic violence remains a serious problem for our community, state, and nation. [Read more…]