Any couple’s greatest strength is unity, togetherness, and support. When one partner, whether married or not, deviates from that way of thinking, problems almost always ensue. People treat their partners unfairly in many different ways, which is why so many couples split up. However, a spouse or partner can stoop no lower than domestic abuse. Domestic abusers are insecure, weak, manipulative, and sometimes downright evil. Domestic abusers generally will assume a position of power by using their partner’s trust against them–truly sinister behavior. This creates an extremely unstable environment, and sometimes victims do not even realize they are a victim until it is too late. Do not let yourself fall into this trap. There is no sufficient apology for domestic violence–it will only continue the cycle. Contact an experienced attorney today, who will aggressively fight for your right to a safe, worry-free life. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, here are some of the questions you may have regarding the path going forward:
What defines domestic abuse?
A general rule of thumb regarding domestic abuse is that if you have to question whether you are being abused, you most likely are. However, several specific instances will usually legally qualify as domestic abuse. They are as follows:
- Emotional abuse or controlling behavior
- Sexual abuse
- Psychological abuse
- Isolation
- Terror
- Intimidation
What can a domestic abuse victim do for safety?
People of all races, genders, ages, and sexual orientations are impacted by domestic abuse, so you should never feel ashamed about reporting your abuser. While you may be a victim now, working with courts and authorities to keep your abuser away will help you become a survivor. The first thing you must do is file an Order of Protection against your abuser. This is a temporary restraining order, designed to keep you safe until the court has a final restraining order hearing. If granted, the temporary restraining order will become permanent. This will provide you with civil relief. However, you may also choose to hold your partner accountable for the criminal actions of domestic violence he or she committed. Additionally, if you are a victim of domestic abuse, you may decide you want sole custody of your children. New York courts are always looking out for the best interests of your children, so if you can prove your spouse or partner is a domestic abuser, he or she may have their parental rights terminated, thereby keeping them away from your family, and your family out of harm’s way.
Contact our compassionate New York firm
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.
