1. Victim and Witness Rights
- Nebraska Attorney General – Victim Assistance
Provides information on victim rights, assistance navigating the criminal justice system, and compensation programs. - Nebraska Crime Commission – Victim Rights
Outlines the statutory rights of crime victims and offers links to state support services and resources.
2. Free and Low-Cost Legal Aid Programs
- Legal Aid of Nebraska
Provides free legal services to low-income residents for civil issues, including protection orders, stalking, harassment, and cyber abuse. - LawHelp Nebraska
Offers self-help legal guides, court forms, and referrals for abuse-related and defamation cases.
3. Relevant Laws
- Stalking: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-311.03
What it means: Repeated behavior (including digital communication) that causes a person to fear for their safety or experience emotional distress. Includes following, surveillance, or threats. - Harassment: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-311.02
What it means: Includes intentional, repeated, or intimidating behavior directed at another person. Covers physical, written, and electronic conduct. - Bullying: No adult criminal statute. Addressed under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 79-2,137 (Education Code)
What it means: Public schools must adopt anti-bullying policies and provide training. Policies include cyberbullying and school-based harassment. - Defamation: Civil tort, not criminal. Based on Nebraska common law and court precedent.
What it means: Victims may bring civil suits for libel or slander if false statements cause reputational damage. Nebraska has no criminal defamation statute.
4. Reporting and Hotlines
- Call 911 for emergencies or if you feel unsafe.
- Report non-emergency incidents to your local police or sheriff’s office.
- Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence
Connects survivors to shelter, legal services, and local advocacy organizations across Nebraska. - Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-690-3860
Available 24/7 with confidential support, referrals, and safety planning services statewide.
5. Support Organizations
- Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence
Offers advocacy, emergency housing, legal assistance, and culturally specific resources for survivors. - The Bridge Behavioral Health
Provides trauma support, advocacy, and mental health services for individuals impacted by violence or harassment.
6. Civil Remedies and Protection Orders
Victims in Nebraska may file for a Harassment Protection Order, Domestic Abuse Protection Order, or Sexual Assault Protection Order. These orders can prevent all forms of contact and are available at district courts throughout the state. Legal aid services can assist with preparation and filing.
Important Note on Jurisdiction: If the individual you are seeking a restraining order against lives in a different state, your local court may not have jurisdiction to enforce that order. In most cases, you must file for protection in the state where that individual resides or where the conduct occurred. This applies even in situations involving online harassment, defamation, or stalking. Contact legal aid services in both your state and the other person’s state for guidance.
7. Youth and School Resources
- Nebraska Department of Education – Bullying Prevention
Provides reporting tools, education policy requirements, and resources for families and schools addressing student bullying.
8. Court Forms and Filing Help
- Nebraska Judicial Branch – Protection Order Forms
Offers downloadable forms and instructions for Harassment and Abuse Protection Orders.
9. Online Safety and Privacy Tools
- NNEDV Tech Safety Toolkit
Offers online safety guidance for survivors of cyberstalking, impersonation, and digital harassment.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
