In January of 1998, The New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence issued the New York State Model Domestic Violence Policy for Counties. This document represents the collective "best thinking" of:

New York State counties
A statewide Task Force
The New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) Advisory Council
Extensive public comment received from communities across the state

The policy provides guidance to communities working to strengthen responses to domestic violence with the goal of consistency and coordination by and between county level agencies and departments. The following sections of the Model Policy provide guidelines for child welfare workers who are dealing with cases involving child abuse/maltreatment and adult domestic violence.

Guiding Principles
Provides universal criteria for all practitioners dealing with domestic violence cases regardless of the system in which an individual works.

Guidelines for the Child Welfare System
Outlines "best practices" for child welfare workers in maximizing the safety of both child and adult victims of domestic violence. Fundamental to the recommendations is the coordination of services between the child welfare system and domestic violence services.