Policy Text
Policy Delano Police Department
429 Delano PD Policy Manual
Civil Disputes
429.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This policy provides members of the Delano Police Department with guidance for addressing
conflicts between persons when no criminal investigation or enforcement action is warranted (e.g.,
civil matters), with the goal of minimizing any potential for violence or criminal acts.
The Domestic Violence Policy will address specific legal mandates related to domestic violence
court orders. References in this policy to “court orders” apply to any order of a court that does not
require arrest or enforcement by the terms of the order or by California law.
429.2 POLICY
The Delano Police Department recognizes that a law enforcement presence at a civil dispute
can play an important role in the peace and safety of the community. Subject to available
resources, members of this department will assist at the scene of civil disputes with the primary
goal of safeguarding persons and property, preventing criminal activity and maintaining the peace.
When handling civil disputes, members will remain impartial, maintain a calm presence, give
consideration to all sides and refrain from giving legal or inappropriate advice.
429.3 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
When appropriate, members handling a civil dispute should encourage the involved parties to
seek the assistance of resolution services or take the matter to the civil courts. Members must not
become personally involved in disputes and shall at all times remain impartial.
While not intended to be an exhaustive list, members should give considerations to the following
when handling civil disputes:
(a) Civil disputes tend to be confrontational and members should be alert that they can
escalate to violence very quickly. De-escalation techniques should be used when
appropriate.
(b) Members should not dismiss alleged or observed criminal violations as a civil matter
and should initiate the appropriate investigation and report when criminal activity is
apparent.
(c) Members shall not provide legal advice, however, when appropriate, members should
inform the parties when they are at risk of violating criminal laws.
(d) Members are reminded that they shall not enter a residence or other non-public
location without legal authority including valid consent.
(e) Members should not take an unreasonable amount of time assisting in these matters
and generally should contact a supervisor if it appears that peacekeeping efforts longer
than 30 minutes are warranted.
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2019/12/06, All Rights Reserved. Civil Disputes - 1
Published with permission by Delano Police Department