How to Get a Copy of a Police Report After Domestic Violence in California

If you’ve experienced domestic violence in California and the police came to the scene, a police report was likely created. Wanting to see what was written about your experience is completely understandable. You may need the report for court, immigration, housing, work leave, or simply to understand what the police documented.

This guide explains how to request a copy of a domestic violence police report in California, what you may receive, and safety issues to think about.

Important disclaimer
This article provides general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and every situation is different. Talk to a lawyer in California for advice about your specific situation.

1. Why you might want a copy of the police report

Survivors request police reports for many reasons, including:

• To support a domestic violence restraining order request

• To show a judge what happened in a family law case (custody, divorce, support)

• To provide proof of abuse for immigration applications (like VAWA, U visa, or other relief)

• To request crime victim compensation or other benefits

• To share with a therapist, advocate, or lawyer to help them understand your situation

• To correct basic errors (like your name, date of birth, or address)

You are not required to get a copy of the report. It is your choice.

2. Safety first: things to consider before requesting a report

Requesting a report can increase risk if the abusive person might find out. Consider:

• Safe address or email

• Mail being intercepted

• Whether you’ll be emotionally ready to read it

• Whether you need someone with you when reviewing it

You can talk with DV advocates, therapists, or California DV lawyers before deciding.

3. Who can get a copy of a domestic violence police report in California?

Survivors (victims)

You can usually request a “victim copy,” but it may be redacted.

Defendants

They get the report through their defense lawyer during criminal discovery, not directly from the police.

Others

Generally cannot access full DV reports; may receive only minimal summaries.

4. What’s usually in a California domestic violence police report?

Typical sections include:

• Basic info (names, date, location, case number)

• Narrative from officers

• Statements from involved parties

• Evidence notes

• Suspected Penal Code violations

• DV risk assessment (sometimes)

You may not receive every section—some parts can be withheld.

5. How to request a copy of a domestic violence police report in California

Step 1: Identify the responding agency

City police, county sheriff, or campus police.

Step 2: Gather basic incident info

Names, DOBs, date, location, report number if available.

Step 3: Check the agency’s website or call Records

Look for “Records Request,” “Victim Copy,” or “Public Records.”

Step 4: Submit your request

Online, by mail, email, fax, or in person.
Include that you are the victim.

Sample language:

I am requesting a victim copy of the police report for a domestic violence incident on or about [date] at [location]. My name is [your name], DOB [DOB]. Please provide the victim copy by [mail/email/pickup].

Step 5: Pay required fees

Some agencies are free; others charge a small fee.

Step 6: Wait for processing

Times vary from days to weeks.

6. What if there is an open criminal case?

Through the prosecutor

Victim-witness advocates may help you understand the report.

Through your lawyer

Your lawyer can request it directly, explain it, and use it for DVRO, custody, or immigration cases.

7. What if the police say no or only give part of the report?

Common reasons for denial:

• Ongoing investigation

• Criminal case active

• Confidential info

• Safety concerns for witnesses or children

Options:

• Request written explanation

• Ask for a victim summary

• Consult a California DV lawyer

• Work with a DV advocate

8. Using a police report in California legal cases

DV restraining orders (DVRO)

Helpful but not required.

Family law cases

May affect custody, visitation, or support.

Immigration

Useful for VAWA, U-visa, etc., with a lawyer’s help.

9. Emotional impact: reading your police report

It's common to feel:

• Shock

• Sadness

• Anger

• Validation

Read it in a safe space and consider support from advocates or professionals.

10. Where to get help in California

• Local DV shelters & advocacy programs

• Legal aid organizations

• District Attorney victim-witness programs

• Private California DV lawyers

11. Key takeaways

• Victims can usually request a California DV police report.

• Access may be delayed or redacted.

• Request from the responding agency’s Records Division.

• Police reports can help with restraining orders, custody, immigration, and more.

• Safety and emotional well-being matter—plan ahead.

• Talk to a California lawyer or DV advocate for personalized advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can victims get a copy of the DV police report in California?

Generally yes, but often redacted if a criminal case is active.

How long does it take?

From a few days to several weeks.

Will the abusive person be notified?

Usually no — but they may eventually receive it through criminal discovery.

Why was my copy redacted?

To protect investigations, witnesses, or private info.

Do I need a police report for a restraining order?

No, but it can help.

Can mistakes be corrected?

Basic info may be corrected; narrative disagreements are usually handled through supplemental statements or court.

Is there a fee?

Varies; some agencies offer free victim copies.