Domestic Violence Assessments
A domestic violence assessment is a structured, evidence-informed tool used to evaluate the
presence, severity, and dynamics of abuse within intimate or family relationships. The tool evaluates
an individual’s experience with, exposure to or risk of domestic abuse, and helps professionals
understand the nature, severity and impact of abuse in order to guide appropriate interventions,
supports case planning, risk management, and court-related decisions by providing a clearer
understanding of safety concerns and intervention needs.
This assessment is designed to:
- Screen for current or past abuse, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse
- Assess risk factors such as patterns of coercive control, escalating violence, threats, and access to weapons
- Evaluate immediate and long-term safety needs counseling, legal advocacy, shelter, or protective services for victims and any involved children
- Determine the impact of abuse on mental health, functioning, and daily life
- Give support-informed recommendations for mental health diagnostics, counseling services, chemical dependency evaluations, psychological assessments, domestic violence programming or parenting classes
- Assist in monitoring compliance with court orders or supervision plans (for probation cases)
Assessments are conducted in a confidential, trauma-informed and non-judgmental environment
prioritizing the individual’s safety, dignity, and autonomy. This approach leads to a thorough
assessment that enables professionals to make informed decisions in both community and judicial
contexts.