This is a socio legal study of social regulation on domestic violence in Peru with particular reference to the South Andean communities It reviews the development and implementation of the state legal remedies on domestic violence. The thesis examines law as a result of historical processes, having different meanings for and impact on the various sectors of the Peruvian population Andean communities are the product of the exploitation and resettlement of the original native people. The thesis considers the way in which these communities from a subordinated position perceive state agencies and legal institutions. It is argued that Andean people do not perceive the legal system as a granter of fundamental rights but rather as a perpetrator of abuse From this perspective, the thesis studies how Peruvian feminists have come to see law as a tool by which to improve the position of women affected by domestic violence. It argues that this approach has not taken sufficient account of the reality of Andean women, their perceptions of domestic violence and their strategies for combating this violence. The study examines this reality and pays particular attention to the role of the judges of the peace in Andean women's strategies. It argues that Andean women are building a different social account of law which is at present not recognised by mainstream legal strategies designed to tackle domestic violence in Peru.