Responses to Domestic Violence in Tribal Communities: A Regional Survey of Northern California

This report presents findings from a technical assistance project designed to gain a deeper understanding of the problems associated with domestic violence in Northern California tribal communities, including the Hoopa Valley Tribe, Karuk Tribe, Smith River Rancheria, Trinidad Rancheria, and the Yurok Tribe. The analysis was carried out by the Center for Court Innovation in partnership with the Northern California Tribal Court Coalition.

Methods included two surveys, respectively of adults and youth, exploring respondents’ personal experiences with domestic violence and their perceptions of community and justice system responses. In addition, nine focus groups were held to gain a deeper understanding of these issues with different groups of affected stakeholders, including perpetrators, victims, service providers, court staff, and both adult and high school age community members.