Abuse Laws
Texas

CHAPTER 91.
REPORTING FAMILY VIOLENCE

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CHAPTER 91.
REPORTING FAMILY VIOLENCE

• § 91.001. Definitions

• § 91.002. Reporting by Witnesses Encouraged

• § 91.003. Information Provided by Medical Professionals

• § 91.004. Application of Subtitle

§ 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.

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§ 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.

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§ 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.

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§ 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.

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