Castle Rock v. Gonzales

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Determined whether a victim of domestic violence can sue police officers for failing to enforce an order of protection.

Full Case Title: 

Castle Rock v. Gonzales, 545 U.S. 748 (2005)
  • Violence Against Women and Girls

Year: 

2005
  • International Human Rights
  • Authored Amicus Brief

Brief: 

Legal Momentum contributed an amicus curiae brief in this case, highlighting treaties, laws, and court decisions that entitle women and children to government protection from domestic violence. U.S. ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which requires governments to afford this protection, is especially significant, because under the Constitution, ratified treaties are part of the "supreme law of the land."

In a 7-2 decision, the Supreme Court determined Jessica Gonzales may not take her local police department to federal court for failing to enforce a restraining order against her estranged husband.