A real concern in New York State is domestic violence. New data shows an increase in domestic violence in New York. The Division of Criminal Justice Services reported 54,848 domestic violence victims outside New York City, a 3% increase from 2011. The New York Police Department indicated an increase of 1,500 domestic violence victims from 2011 to 2012.
New York State has been part of the growing movement of states to pass or introduce legislation providing greater protection to victims of domestic violence. In New York, a bill was recently introduced to provide generous leave of 90 days to victims of domestic or sexual violence. If passed, employers would be required to provide 90 days of unpaid leave during any 12 month period to a victim of domestic violence so that the employee can address the effects of domestic violence, whether it be to seek medical care, secure legal assistance, or attend counseling or therapy. Upon the employee returning to work, the employee would be entitled to the same or equivalent position and may not lose any benefits accrued before the start of the leave.
If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233. A number of organizations in New York and Greater New York are working to combat the issue of domestic violence by providing a number of different services.
Here's a collection of resources from: domestic violence LawHelpNY:
Domestic Violence: Finding Safety and Support
Immigration and Domestic Violence: Answers to Common Questions