Introduction
Over 1.7 million Indiana residents experience intimate partner violence in their lifetimes. Fortunately, many victims survive these traumatic events; however, Indiana reported 216 domestic violence related homicides between 2009-2012, 59% of whom died by firearms. An abuser’s access to firearms can determine a victim’s chances of survival; domestic violence firearm prohibitions and removal laws save lives.
Indiana prohibits possession of firearms by persons convicted of domestic battery. A court issuing a final domestic violence order of protection may prohibit the subject of the order from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Indiana does not require removal of firearms from persons subject to ex parte and final domestic violence orders of protection; however, a judge issuing a final domestic violence order of protection may order the subject of the order to surrender firearms and ammunition. A judge issuing an ex parte domestic violence order of protection may order other relief necessary for the safety and welfare of a petitioner and family and household members.
