The article explores the unique characteristics of intimate partner violence cases that influence the interface of intimate partner violence victims with the court system. A review is provided of research on the criminal justice interventions in cases of intimate partner violence; and research on the efficacy of civil protective orders. The author notes that women entering the court system face a challenging experience, in part, because a courtroom can be an intimidating and difficult place for any person, and in part because women victimized by crimes in which the offender is known to them face distinctive difficulties when they seek the court’s remedies. The interface is also made more challenging for women as the literature offers disparate findings as to the efficacy of criminal justice responses and civil remedies. Discussion is provided on the uniqueness of intimate partner violence cases, civil protective orders, and the criminal justice response, to include the police, prosecution and court, and coordinated community responses. References