Policy & Legal Tools
Resources on this page:
This page is designed for advocates, legal professionals, financial regulators, and policymakers who need to understand the legal framework, protections, and reform efforts related to financial abuse as a form of domestic violence.
California Laws Protecting Survivors
Coerced Debt Protections
California Civil Code §§ 1798.97.1 – 1798.97.6
These laws define “coerced debt” and give survivors the right to request that consumer credit reporting agencies block debt incurred through abuse.
- Survivors may submit documentation such as a police report, restraining order, or sworn statement.
- Once blocked, the debt may not be reported to credit bureaus or included in credit scores.
Read Civil Code §§ 1798.97.1 – 1798.97.6.
Recognizing Coercive Control
Family Code § 6320
Defines “disturbing the peace of the other party” to include coercive control, such as:
- Monitoring economic resources
- Controlling movement or communication
- Isolating from support networks
This statute allows survivors to obtain restraining orders based on non-physical forms of abuse.
Read Family Code § 6320.
Debt Rulings in Court
Family Code § 6342.5
Allows judges to determine that specific debts were the result of domestic violence and assign legal responsibility accordingly.
- Often used in divorce, support, or protection order proceedings
Read Family Code § 6342.5.
Legal Reporting Tools
Elder Financial Abuse Resources
- Report Suspected Dependent Adult/Elder Abuse
- SOC 341 Form – for public use
- SOC 342 Form – for financial institutions
- Adult Protective Services Offices by California County
- Additional Resources
Policy Recommendations
- Recognize coerced debt as a legitimate form of identity theft or financial fraud
- Accept self-attestation or letters from community orgs instead of police reports
- Allow nontraditional ID and proof of address for opening survivor accounts
Resources for Legal and Policy Professionals
Last updated: