A definition of wife assault is provided, and its extent and seriousness is discussed. Common myths and wife assault are examined, and the emotional and physical effects of battering are considered. Materials on representing the battered client cover developing an effective response to wife abuse, promoting changes in attitudes among child witnesses of family violence, the law of self-defense, and the impact of police charges in incidents of wife abuse. Relevant precedents, recent sentences in domestic violence cases, and pertinent Canadian legislation also are reviewed. In addition to an examination of criminal procedures and issues, procedures in civil cases and interspousal tort actions are discussed. Laws and issues relevant to the protection of the victim and children, child custody, shelter and financial support, and division of family property also are considered. Advocacy and nonlegal community and social resources for the victim are delineated, and a list is provided of the special needs of the battering victim and the resources available to meet them. A handbook provides information on the means for obtaining victim compensation for injuries. Paper footnotes, references, and case citations.