By reaching agreement on the purposes of a family violence council, leaders can begin to focus public attention on the community goals regarding family violence. The general purpose of the council would be to coordinate efforts between agencies, departments, and courts and the victims of domestic abuse; to promote effective intervention, prevention, and treatment; and to improve the response to domestic violence and abuse. Councils can be created through legislation, by local ordinance, or through leadership efforts put forth by the State Attorney General, city administrators, judges, or community groups. The council would operate through regular public meetings, committees and subcommittees, and workplans for each year of operation. This article discusses the potential impact of family violence councils and points to some model programs currently in operation. Recommendations to help maintain a family violence council are provided. 38 notes and 4 appendixes