Texas Basic Peace Officer Certification Practice Exam

In a family violence disturbance, which duty must a peace officer perform?

1. Give written notice of victim's legal rights

2. Write out a protective order

3. Take bail

4. Issue a peace bond

The correct answer is: Give written notice of victim's legal rights

In cases of family violence disturbances, a peace officer has a fundamental duty to provide victims with information regarding their legal rights. This obligation ensures that victims are aware of the resources available to them and can take appropriate actions for their safety and well-being. Providing written notice serves as an important step in empowering victims, as it informs them about things such as their rights to seek protective orders, access shelters, and receive counseling services. While other options, such as writing a protective order or taking bail, may be relevant actions in certain contexts, they do not represent the primary duty of the officer in this specific situation. The issuance of a peace bond is also more of a judicial matter, depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. Therefore, the focus on providing written notice of the victim’s legal rights is a crucial and mandated responsibility for peace officers encountering family violence situations. This reflects the emphasis on supporting victims and ensuring they are informed of their rights under the law.