Blog Post

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FAQS: HOW YOU CAN HELP OR GET HELP

  • By marlene@abramowitzandassociates.com
  • •
  • 27 Dec, 2017
  • •
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is an unfortunate reality in every community and state. Thousands of people call victim helplines each day, and it is estimated that one in three women will experience violence at the hand of an intimate partner at least once. Women are not the only victims, however, as a quarter of men are also likely to experience some sort of domestic abuse.

If you are a victim of violence in your home or if you know someone who is being targeted by an abusive partner or parent, you might be unsure what you can do. What protections are available to people who have been victimized? Would reporting the incident to the police help, or might it make a bad situation worse? .

Here are some FAQs that can give you a baseline for getting or sending help in situations of domestic violence.

What Protections Are Available For Victims?

Many victims do not report incidents of violence because they fear retaliation. Personal safety is a primary concern for those who are accustomed to rough treatment for even minor infractions.

Before taking action against an abuser, you can call a hotline in your city for advice on how to proceed. You'll need to make a plan for where you’ll go, how you'll access your basic needs, and how you might protect yourself legally. Having a safety plan in place and relying on the assistance of local social workers can make escape possible.

You might consider staying at a local shelter. You also have the right to contact a family law attorney for advice on how best to proceed. If there is evidence of physical harm, police can also provide short-term protection until a more permanent solution can be found.

Florida also has a relocation program in place to help protect abuse victims. Your lawyer can help ensure you qualify for this protection.

How Might Reporting Violent Incidents To The Police Affect The Situation?

Unfortunately, many people feel that their particular situation is not worth the hassle of involving law enforcement. However, calling the police for help when you have been a victim of domestic assault can help your case in a number of ways.

Through the police, you can press criminal charges that will eventually result in some protection for you. For serious assaults and injuries, an abuser can be charged with a felony and may be required to spend several years in prison.

However, small incidents may only result in a misdemeanor charge. Misdemeanors might get little to no time in prison, and other punishments like fines or community service are common. If this occurs, a victim may need additional help from a civil attorney to ensure safety.

How Can A Civil Attorney Help?

A civil attorney who is experienced in family law can help where a criminal justice system cannot. With the help of a lawyer, you can:

  • File a restraining order against the perpetrator. This is a preliminary measure that brings an added level of protection to victims. In some cases, a temporary order can be made permanent.
  • Connect you with social workers who may help make living arrangements for family members affected by abuse. Family members may need counseling or special care.
  • Help you file for compensation. In some cases, injuries are severe and will require medical treatment. You can file to receive aid from your state to help pay for loss of income, medical expenses, and other financial losses that might result from your escape from domestic violence.
  • File for divorce. Your lawyer can help you access alimony or child support payments, and he or she can also help you fight to keep the home that you lost as a result of abuse. Your lawyer will also be key for fighting for full custody of any children who might be affected by abuse.
As soon as you experience any sort of domestic violence, contacting a family lawyer is an important step. They know what actions you can take that will end in your ultimate safety.

For more information, contact us at Abramowitz & Associates.
Share by: