Domestic violence comes in many different forms. For starters, your significant other could be really protective of you — to the point where s/he does not allow you to associate with others. This progresses into feelings of isolation where the victim forms a stronger bond with his/her abuser. Then, your abuser turns on and off his/her “abuser switch” — s/he is either overly caring or abusive. This is a mind game — you might start to think it’s you and your abuser against everyone else. That is when you are trapped.
The most common misconception is that only women are victims of domestic violence. This is not true. Although women are generally the victims, men are equally susceptible to abuse. Abuse comes in many forms, mental, physical and emotional.
To protect yourself from abuse you should do the following:
- Make sure that you are in a safe part of the home;
- Make sure that you have a phone;
- Make sure that you have family members who are able to help;
- Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at(800) 799-7233;
- Create a safety plan; or
- File a restraining order.
Remember, these are just some of the many options you have. You are not alone. Hiring an experienced family law attorney can help you stop domestic violence by making you more aware of your rights.
Authored by IRWIN & IRWIN.
IRWIN & IRWIN Family Law is located in Fullerton, California. We provide a full suite of family law services from divorce litigation, divorce mediation, child custody issues, domestic violence restraining orders and representing minors in court. “Every situation is different, and some come with very complex financial issues. Our legal team is here to support you during a very troubling time and prepare you for court, or to at least help negotiate or mediate the issues out to establish an equitable legal resolution,” says Kelly Irwin, Senior Litigator at the firm.
