Survivors of dating/domestic violence have several avenues for redress, if they choose:

• Criminal prosecution
• Orders of protection
• Hearing before the University Judiciary Committee (for UVa Students)

Each remedy has different advantages and disadvantages:

• Criminal prosecution might result in imprisonment of the batterer, or perhaps enforce batterers' group counseling. It could simply result in probation, depending on the circumstances and the judge who hears the case. It might also force the batterer into accountability, which may be the only workable approach.
• Orders of protection work well if the batterer respects authority and is fearful of being arrested. But if that is not the case, then they are only as good as the paper they are written on. Arrests are required if there is a violation of a protective order. They can be useful tools, and worth the time and effort of securing.
• Civil suits may be an option for collecting damages and recovering costs relating to moving, therapy, and so on, if the batterer has any financial resources at all. One doesn't have to sue for money, however, it's possible to sue to force the abuser to get therapy, to return certain items, and so on.
• The UVa UJC has rarely, if ever, heard a domestic/dating violence case. But the committee members are aware that this is a possibility. The consequences, if the student is found in violation of the Standards of Conduct, can range from a letter of reprimand to expulsion. It might be an avenue to consider. The UJC hearing can be pursued whether or not criminal or civil action is taken.