Domestic Abuse Laws
Texas
CHAPTER 91.
REPORTING FAMILY VIOLENCE
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CHAPTER 91.
REPORTING FAMILY VIOLENCE
§ 91.001. Definitions
In this subtitle:
(1) "Family violence" has the meaning assigned by Section 71.004.
(2) "Medical professional" means a licensed doctor, nurse, physician assistant, or emergency medical technician.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 34, § 1, eff. May 5, 1997.
§ 91.002. Reporting by Witnesses Encouraged
A person who witnesses family violence is encouraged to report the family violence to a local law enforcement agency.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 34, § 1, eff. May 5, 1997.
§ 91.003. Information Provided by Medical Professionals
A medical professional who treats a person for injuries that the medical professional has reason to believe were caused by family violence shall:
(1) immediately provide the person with information regarding the nearest family violence shelter center;
(2) document in the person's medical file:
(A) the fact that the person has received the information provided under Subdivision (1); and
(B) the reasons for the medical professional's belief that the person's injuries were caused by family violence; and
(3) give the person a written notice in substantially the following form, completed with the required information, in both English and Spanish:
"NOTICE TO ADULT VICTIMS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE
"It is a crime for any person to cause you any physical injury or harm even if that person is a member or former member of your family or household.
"You may report family violence to a law enforcement officer by calling the following telephone numbers: ____________________________________________________.
"If you, your child, or any other household resident has been injured or if you feel you are going to be in danger after a law enforcement officer investigating family violence leaves your residence or at a later time, you have the right to:
"Ask the local prosecutor to file a criminal complaint against the person committing family violence; and
"Apply to a court for an order to protect you. You may want to consult with a legal aid office, a prosecuting attorney, or a private attorney. A court can enter an order that:
"(1) prohibits the abuser from committing further acts of violence;
"(2) prohibits the abuser from threatening, harassing, or contacting you at home;
"(3) directs the abuser to leave your household; and
"(4) establishes temporary custody of the children or any property.
"A VIOLATION OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF COURT-ORDERED PROTECTION MAY BE A FELONY.
"CALL THE FOLLOWING VIOLENCE SHELTERS OR SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS IF YOU NEED PROTECTION: _________________________________."
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 34, § 1, eff. May 5, 1997.
§ 91.004. Application of Subtitle
This subtitle does not affect a duty to report child abuse under Chapter 261.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 34, § 1, eff. May 5, 1997.
