If you are in immediate danger, call 112 (emergency) or 181 (Women Helpline). Legal steps can follow once you are safe.
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (the "DV Act") protects women from violence by a husband, partner or their relatives in a shared household. Domestic violence under the Act is broader than physical harm. It includes:
- physical abuse;
- sexual abuse;
- verbal and emotional abuse, including insults and threats;
- economic abuse, such as denying money for necessities or forcing you out of the home.
Orders the court can make
- Protection order (Section 18): stops the respondent from committing violence, contacting you, or entering your workplace;
- Residence order (Section 19): protects your right to live in the shared household, or provides alternative accommodation;
- Monetary relief (Section 20): covers expenses, loss of earnings, medical costs and maintenance;
- Custody order (Section 21): temporary custody of children;
- Compensation (Section 22): for injuries, including mental torture and emotional distress.
The Magistrate can pass interim and even ex parte orders (Section 23) where there is urgency. See our guide: Your options under the Domestic Violence Act.
How we help
- Safety first. We help you plan the safest next step, including where to stay and what to take with you.
- Application. We prepare and file the application before the Magistrate, with a request for urgent interim orders where needed.
- Evidence. We help you assemble medical records, photographs, messages and witness details.
- Related matters. We coordinate maintenance, custody, stridhan recovery and, where appropriate, divorce, so the cases support each other.
If a complaint has been filed against you
We also advise respondents. A DV case is a civil-type remedy heard by a Magistrate, and a careful, factual response, together with a willingness to resolve related issues sensibly, often leads to a fair outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to file a police complaint first?
No. You can apply directly to the Magistrate under the DV Act, or approach a Protection Officer or service provider. A police complaint is a separate option for criminal offences.
Can I be forced out of my matrimonial home?
The DV Act protects your right to reside in the shared household. A residence order can restrain the respondent from dispossessing you, regardless of whether you own the home.
How quickly can I get protection?
Where there is urgency, the Magistrate can grant interim or ex parte orders at an early stage, often at the first hearing.
Is the case confidential?
Our advice is strictly confidential. The court can also hold proceedings in camera (privately) where circumstances warrant it.
This page is general information about Indian law as of 15 October 2026, not legal advice. Every case turns on its own facts. Please speak to a lawyer before acting on it. See our disclaimer.
Talk to a family lawyer in confidence
Private consultations in Saidapet, Chennai or online.