Domestic violence is a very real and frightening problem that affects many lives. The state of New York is aggressive towards finding solutions and protecting victims from their abusers. The state enacted The Family Protection and Domestic Violence Intervention Act in 1994 to create a more proactive approach towards protecting victims and giving them their lives back. This approach allows for more assertive law enforcement and criminal justice intervention. With this Act, victims can protect themselves immediately with legal action to hold their abusers responsible for their actions. Victims can be individuals who are married, separated, divorced, live together, date, or share a child with another person. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, it is crucial to contact an attorney for help in your case.
What is Domestic Violence?
There is not one face of domestic violence. Unfortunately, violence can happen to anyone, no matter what gender, social status, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation they may be. Many believe domestic violence is solely physical abuse, but this is not always the case. Domestic violence can happen in many different forms and it does not always have physical signs. There are several different ways domestic violence can happen to individuals that everyone should be aware of. Examples may include:
- Controlling behavior
- Terroristic threats
- Harassment
- Physical, psychological, emotional, and sexual abuse
- Stalking
- Homicide
Protection
The state of New York helps victims handle these horrifying situations by allowing them the opportunity to receive the protection they may need. Victims have the right to request an Order of Protection against their abuser. This can be done through a local family or criminal court, as well as in addition to a divorce case. An Order of Protection can require an abuser to stay away from their home and children. It also forces them to give up any firearms they may have, as well as bar them from acquiring any new firearms.
False Accusations
When a person is accused of domestic violence, they may face serious consequences such as jail time and a criminal record. Because of this, it is crucial to not falsely accuse people of committing domestic violence. Unfortunately, there are some people who take advantage of New York’s strict abuse laws and wrongfully accuse others of abusing them. This typically happens when one person tries to have power or control over another individual. These accusations can negatively impact a person’s reputation and future. It is important to speak with an attorney to clear your name if you have been falsely accused of domestic violence.
Contact Our Firm
If you have been a victim of domestic violence, or have been falsely accused of domestic violence, contact The Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C. today.
Matters of divorce and family law should be navigated with the guidance of an experienced attorney. If you need strong legal representation regarding matters of divorce, family law, and estate law, contact the Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C. to schedule a consultation today.
