What is the lethality assessment?

The lethality assessment is fundamentally a tool used by law enforcement to identify victims of domestic violence who are at a heightened risk for severe injury or homicide. Its purpose is to systematically evaluate various risk factors associated with intimate partner violence that may indicate an imminent threat to a victim's life.

By employing a series of questions or indicators, the assessment helps officers gain insight into the danger a victim may be in, allowing them to respond appropriately and connect them with necessary resources, such as shelters or counseling services. This proactive approach not only helps to protect victims but also aims to reduce fatalities associated with domestic violence situations.

In contrast, other options represent different concepts that do not align with the primary function of the lethality assessment. For instance, measuring the success of rehabilitation programs or assessing community awareness about family violence are distinct from the immediate risk assessment that the lethality assessment focuses on.