In response to family violence, Maryland created the Family Violence Council in 1995 to prevent and reduce family violence and to break the cycle of violence between generations. This council studied the problem of family violence and developed 20 specific recommendations to prevent such violence. These recommendations build a solid foundation for a coordinated systems approach to family violence. A violence prevention action plan is detailed that includes two phases: (1) action teams of the Family Violence Council focused on the criminal justice system, courts, legislation, local family violence coordinating councils, victim services and resources, children, and intervention with domestic violence abusers and sex offenders; and (2) family violence unit to monitor, evaluate, and continue the Family Violence Council's work. 7 exhibits