The dangerous unintended consequences of a domestic violence registry

“Plead guilty so you can go home to your kids.” That was what a defense lawyer advised an abuse survivor who later sought help from the UC Irvine Domestic Violence Clinic. After experiencing two decades of physical and sexual abuse, when the survivor called the police for help, her husband falsely claimed that she injured him. She was arrested and pleaded guilty to domestic violence, while her husband went free.

Another client filed for child support after breaking up with her abusive boyfriend.