Protecting Yourself and Your Children from Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence and Divorce
Recent studies indicate that domestic violence is experienced by an estimated four million people every year, and occurs at least once in two-thirds of all marriages. Approximately 95% of the victims of domestic violence are women.

Many children who are abused, or who witness the abuse of a parent, grow up to become abusers, or become victims in violent relationships.

Take Immediate Action if Your Spouse is Violent
If you are the victim of domestic violence, take all steps necessary to protect your safety and the safety of your children.

• Call the police and file criminal charges if they are warranted
• Contact the domestic violence relief agency in your county.
• When you and your children are safe, call a family law attorney

Find the Right solution.
Whether you have filed a temporary or permanent restraining order against your abuser, or some other type of court order, the Domestic Violence Act allows judges to approve a range of protections which include:

• Granting protective orders
• Giving you possession of the marital home and excluding your spouse
• Requiring your spouse to provide alternate housing
• Ordering support payments for you and/or your children
• Determining possession of personal property
• Granting temporary child custody
• Issuing orders to refrain from acts of domestic violence or harassment

Obtaining Emotional Support
Emotional support is essential to everyone involved in the breakup of a violent marriage.” Mental health professionals, friends and family are vital to the emotional heath of those who have been victimized by domestic violence.  Many government agencies can provide counseling at fees based upon the victim’s income.