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The Family Violence Protection Team (FVPT) is a collaborative, community response to family violence that provides multiple services at one location. We improve access to law enforcement, counseling, crisis management and legal services for survivors of family violence and their children. We hope to increase batterer accountability, empower survivors to lead violence-free lives and lead the community's zero tolerance policy toward family violence.
THE TEAM
Texas law views family violence as a serious danger and a threat to society. Assaults and threats to members of a person's family or household are considered family violence. A "member of a family or household" includes people who formerly lived together as defined by state law. Travis County is fortunate to have a solid network of public and non-profit organizations that deal with domestic violence. In 1996, the Austin Police Department applied for a "Grant to Encourage Arrest Policies" through the US Department of Justice, Violence Against Women Grants Office. As a result of the grant award, the Department began to assemble the Family Violence Protection Team in May 1997.
The following agencies make up the team:
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The Austin Police Department
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The Travis County Sheriff's Office
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SafePlace (formerly the Center for Battered Women and Rape Crisis Center)
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Legal Aid of Central Texas
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Texas Advocacy Project
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The Travis County Attorney's Office
For more information on the Team - see Further Team Information
