Domestic violence is a major national concern. Our judicial system can only play a small role in ending the cycle of family violence. Courts now use jail sentences, fines, community service and intensive counseling to punish offenders and teach them to control their tempers and anger. While charges of domestic violence are often filed in the county courts as a misdemeanor, the judges assigned to handle these cases treat domestic violence situations with more urgency than many other crimes. Many people charged with domestic violence find it hard to obtain release from jail, as judges are concerned that return to the home could result in escalated violence and injury. If you are the victim of domestic violence, act quickly to protect yourself. There are many social service agencies available that you can contact. Look in your telephone directory under crisis intervention services for local safe houses where you can stay. Attorneys, the police, and social service agencies can be helpful in steering an individual toward counseling programs available for both victims and perpetrators of domestic violence. For more information regarding domestic violence, consult an attorney.