protect the rights of women as equal citizens under the law in regard to domestic abuse perpetrated against them.

Perpetrators of domestic violence will be charged with assault and/or hostage taking in the same manner as if they had accosted a stranger. Incidences of abuse against a victim will be regarded in their entirety as a pattern of violence and control. A victim of domestic violence will have the right to an immediate divorce under the provision of cruel and inhumane treatment and shall have physical and legal custody of children who have resided in the home. All minor children (younger than 18) will be placed, by the court with the victim, to assure their safety. Violations of court orders, orders of protection, visitation by the perpetrator will result in a monetary fine, jail time, or both, depending on the repetition and/or severity of the violation.