Which statement about LAP and intimate partner violence is true?

• A. It is used only for police training
• B. It identifies victims for mental health counseling
• C. It identifies victims who are in danger of being killed
• D. It replaces arrest decisions

Answer: (C)

Lethality Assessment Protocol is a risk-screening tool used to identify intimate partner violence victims who are at imminent risk of being killed. The questions focus on factors strongly linked to near-term lethality—things like threats, access to weapons, prior harm, and the victim’s fear for their life. When someone is identified as high risk, responders initiate immediate safety actions such as safety planning, connecting the victim with domestic violence advocacy, arranging safe housing resources, and applying appropriate law enforcement measures. It isn’t used only for training, nor is it primarily a route to mental health referrals, and it doesn’t replace arrest decisions; its purpose is to flag danger and mobilize lifesaving responses.