A Guide for Advocates to Understand the Legal Implications of Abusive International Marriages grew out of the need to identify legal remedies available to survivors and family members affected by this issue. It is intended as a resource for advocates who work with Hmong American women and families affected by abusive international marriages as defined below. Abusive international marriage is a very specific form of gender-based violence steeped in specific cultural experiences; hence, typical legal remedies designed for domestic violence and sexual assault might not be appropriate. Women in abusive international marriages often have a wide variety of legal and non-legal issues that need to be competently addressed, and it is easy for an advocate to feel overwhelmed. Advocates, however, can contribute a critical service to women by helping to identify the many issues in an abusive international marriage, and by exploring options and resources that might be available. This Guide provides information for advocates so they are better equipped to do just that.

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