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Domestic Violence

The Domestic Violence Unit (DVU) of the Winston-Salem Police Department assists victims and their families with any issues resulting from domestic violence. The DVU can assist with information regarding obtaining a restraining order, information regarding temporary shelter, or any other concerns regarding domestic violence. Please feel free to contact the DVU Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at (336)773-7943.

Definition of Domestic Violence

In North Carolina, a domestic relationship is defined as:

  • A current or former spouse.
  • A current or former dating relationship.
  • A current or former roommate or household member.
  • A parent/child grandparent/grandchild relationship.
  • Individuals with a child in common.

The crimes that can be committed in a domestic relationship range from assault, simple assault, assault on a female, harassing phone calls, communicating threats, protective order violations, and many others.

hurt woman

sad girl

Be Prepared

  • Plan an emergency escape.
  • Keep money hidden to get away quickly.
  • Make extra keys to the car and house. Leave them in a safe and secret place.
  • Keep a list of emergency phone numbers in a safe place.
  • Keep extra clothing for yourself and the children at the house of a friend, relative, or neighbor.
  • Know someone you can tell about the violence and who will call the police if they hear suspicious noises coming from your house.
  • Teach your children how to dial 911 to contact the police and fire departments.
  • Develop a code word for use with your children and friends so they will know to call for help.

The links that are not part of the City of Winston-Salem web site will open in a new window


Forsyth County District Attorney's Office: (336)761-2320.

DA’s Domestic Violence Unit assists with legal questions regarding domestic violence and the court process: (336)761-2320, Ext. 4047, Ext. 4049, Ext. 4050

Clerk of Court handles questions about Domestic Violence Protective Orders (50-B): (336)761-2320, Ext. 4074

Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit assists with domestic violence issues occurring within Forsyth County and with service of Domestic Violence Protective Orders (50-B): (336)761-2320, Ext. 4082


Safe On Seven

Safe on Seven Center for Forsyth County

Safe on Seven: (SOS) Forsyth Domestic Violence Center is a multi-agency approach to provide services for victims of domestic violence. The Center is located on the seventh floor of the Forsyth County Hall of Justice, Winston-Salem, NC. The Safe on Seven Center provides a "one-stop shop" for domestic violence victims by bringing together key service providers from the court system, law enforcement, victim advocates, legal advocates and social services, thus providing access to a variety of services to victims in one centralized location.


50-B / Restraining Order Laws

North Carolina General Assembly - Restraining Order laws

Legal definitions of domestic violence and statutes outlining obtaining a restraining order.


ADT Aware Program

ADT Aware Program for a panic button

Information on obtaining a panic button alarm through ADT and the Winston Salem Police Department for victims of domestic violence. This alarm system is available to victims of domestic violence. Applicants must possess a valid 50-B in addition to several other requirements to be eligible.


Family Services

Family Services of Forsyth County

Comprehensive counseling services which include: pregnancy, individual, couple, stress, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, divorce, communication and crime victimization, as well as sexual assault and domestic violence counseling. Also provides adoption services and information.


National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence 

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) is comprised of people dealing with the concerns of battered women and their families.  NCADV represents both rural and urban areas.  Our programs support and involve battered women of all racial, social, religious and economic groups, ages and lifestyles.  NCADV opposes the use of violence as a means of control over others and support equality in relationships and the concept of helping women assume power over their own lives. 


North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence

NC Coalition Against Domestic Violence

The North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCCADV) is a community of agencies and individuals who serve battered women and their children. NCCADV was founded in 1981 with 21 participating programs and now includes over 90 member programs. Areas of support to member programs include technical assistance, training, information about public policy initiatives, and activities to increase public awareness.


SAVAN

Victim Assistance - SAVAN

SAVAN (Statewide Automated Victim Assistance and Notification) helps victims of crime get custody status and court information about offenders. It is a free 24-hour per day service that is available in both English and Spanish. In addition, SAVAN automatically notifies registered victims of important events, such as release of an inmate or scheduled court events.


Vicitm Assistance Unit

Victim Assistance Unit, Winston-Salem Police

The Victim Assistance Unit (VAU) of the Winston-Salem Police Department assists victims and their families with any issues which arise as a result of crimes such as rape, homicide, assault, etc.  The VAU works as intermediaries in finding financial assistance, counseling, providing safety planning, and assisting with any questions regarding the legal process, along with information on case status and updates.  Please feel free to contact the VAU Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at (336)773-7943.