An effective law enforcement response to domestic violence must include the adoption of a comprehensive policy that is a priority for the agency, is consistently applied, supports victims, and holds perpetrators accountable—whether they are community members or police officers. Any comprehensive policy must be part of a developed, coordinated community infrastructure and response that provides support to maximize victim and officer safety and implements sanctions against perpetrators.

In addition to providing guidance regarding the establishment of priorities, guidelines, and procedures to be followed by law enforcement officers in response to domestic violence calls, these documents now also incorporate guidelines for responding to domestic violence by police officers.