Act on the Prevention of Spousal Violence and the Protection of Victims, Act No. 31 of 2001 (Japan)
The Act defines spousal violence as any bodily harm caused by one spouse, or words and deeds by one spouse that causes psychological or physical harm to the other spouse, and also covers cases wherein a spouse has, subsequent to being subjected to violence by the other spouse, obtained a divorce or annulment of marriage but continues to be subjected to violence by the former spouse.
The Act imposes obligations upon relevant Ministers to establish a basic policy concerning measures for the prevention of spousal violence and the protection of victims, while prefectures are authorized to establish consulting offices or other appropriate facilities as spousal violence counseling and support centers. It also provides for the rules and procedures regarding the grant of protection orders against spousal violence.