Law enforcement and social welfare can provide mutually supportive functions, provided that professionals have the specialized knowledge and skills to assure effective and nonconflictive interaction. Although law enforcement and social work have historically trained their members to view problems differently, combined efforts of the two professions should facilitate a comprehensive, knowledgeable approach to crisis situations. The theoretical framework employed is that of crisis intervention. Police work is essentially crisis work, and social work is aware of the importance and validity of a crisis orientation to acute situations. The importance of followup after an emergency response is stressed, and the role of social workers in this process is critical. Specific guidance is offered on how law enforcement and social work can work together in addressing individual, family, and community crises. Social and police functions are specified for mental health needs, domestic violence, child endangerment, hearing-impaired persons, children beyond control, and crisis intervention with the adult rape survivor. 63 references, 13 figures.