So it is Christmas and while most people are happy with their families and f[b]riends I am dealing with my latest domestic issue with my husband. As a background we have been married for 3 years and it has been nothing but chaos. He has been abusive both physically and verbally to me throughout our marriage. I have never called the police on him before but I did tonight after he choked me and basically body slammed me onto the floor( he is 6'6 and about 350 lbs). the police came and arrested him. They said they would hold him in jail for 36 hours. I was just wondering if anyone knows what happens after he is let out? does he automatically receive a restraining order or is that something I have to file on my own? Thanks!

The police should have told you the next steps. I would start with calling them first. While they can't give you legal advice, they should be able to tell you steps you need to take depending on what you next course of action is. Each state and even sometimes cities have their own rules and laws about what is next. If you want him out of your house for good, a restraining order or protection order is a great idea. Just remember, it is only a piece of paper though. You should also contact a domestic violence shelter in your area. If you don't know of any, you can call either the United Way or the National Domestic Violence Hotline to get pointed in the right direction.BellaOnline ALERT: Raw URLs are not allowed in these forums for security reasons. Please use UBB code. If you don't know how to do UBB code just post here for help - we will help out!

Also inform family of the situation and have a friend or relative stay with you at all times.

I am sorry to hear about your traumatic experience. Be proud of yourself for having the strength to call the police. In Washington state, where I live, a no-contact order is automatically issued after every domestic violence arraignment. They are in effect for 2 years. If the two people involved live together, they will give him a civil standby, where he can be escorted by the police to retrieve some of his belongings. You should be able to talk to a dv advocate who knows about the case a nd can let you know the specifics. Good luck with everything and stay safe.