This report by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights evaluates the treatment of adult women who are victims of domestic violence by the criminal and civil justice systems and by various service agencies. First, an overview of State domestic violence statutes and relief services is presented. The present responses and potential roles of police officers, prosecutors and judges are examined in subsequent chapters. In these chapters, the failure of police officers and judges to recognize the seriousness of domestic violence, and the tendency among prosecutors to treat such cases differently from those involving violence between stranqers are discussed. The failure of judges to impose sanctions commensurate with the offense and their emphasis on preservation of the marital relationship at the expense of a battered woman's life and limb are also examined. The use of diversionary programs such as counseling and mediation which channel complaints out of the criminal justice system as well as the social services, shelters, and legal services available to battered women are also covered in this report. The final chapter reiterates the Commission's findings and sets forth recommendations for reform. (JCD)