The purposes of the task force are to create an understanding of the scope of the domestic violence problem in New York; to provide an accurate assessment of the needs of families affected by violence; to identify weaknesses in the various institutions intended to protect family members from violence; and to formulate and implement proposals for more effective responses by the social, legal, and medical system. The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services indicates that in 1981, some 25,998 domestic violence offenses were reported to police agencies in the State. However, the actual frequency of family violence is much higher. Studies reveal that 50 percent of all marriages involve at least one incident of physical violence. Approximately 1 million children nationwide are victims of child abuse and neglect each year. Other studies indicate that as many as 1 in 10 elderly people are abused by their families. Suggestions are made to amend the Family Court Act and Criminal Procedure Law to clarify and expand provisions for preliminary relief and enforcement of orders of protection. Policy recommendations are based on the work of Task Force subcommittees in such areas as justice, police training, education, public relations, hospital protocol, and agency services regulations. Data collection on the incidence of domestic violence is considered as the soundest basis for development of services. Despite inroads in the training of police and criminal justice professionals, the establishment of a hot line, the creation of a court structure responsive to victims' needs, the establishment of shelters, and the education of school personnel regarding domestic violence, more needs to be done in the area of prevention.