What To Do If You’ve Experienced Domestic Violence – The Reape-Rickett Law Firm

Domestic Violence comes in many forms and can affect anyone, regardless of income, age, or gender.
Some forms of abuse are very obvious, such as hitting, kicking, punching, pushing, hair pulling and other forms of physical violence. There are other types of actions that can rise to the level of domestic violence which are not quite as obvious. This can include name-calling, belittling, gaslighting, isolating someone from friends and family, invading someone’s privacy, text messages, emails, etc., and other forms of non-physical control. These types of abuse can be considered emotional abuse and/or coercive control.
The first things a survivor should do is get safe. Make sure you are in a safe environment and away from the abuser. Statistically speaking the period after leaving an abuser is the most dangerous, so having a plan in essential. Domestic violence shelters can help in developing a safety plan as well as connecting people to temporary shelters or other beneficial resources.
Survivors can also request a Domestic Violence Restraining Order from the Court. In the request, you must detail the relationship between the abuser and yourself as there must be a specific closeness between the victim and their abuser to get a domestic violence restraining order. Once that relationship has been established, the survivor needs to describe the dates of abuse, who was present and the types of abuse, there may be one instance, or several referenced in the petition/request.
Anyone can request a Restraining Order, with or without counsel. However, it is strongly recommended that you consult with an attorney who has extensive experience in these matters to help guide you through the legal process. The support and preparation offered could mean the difference between a Restraining Order being granted or denied. If you need help and want to speak with an attorney, contact The Reape-Rickett Law Firm at (888) 846-6166 or visit DivorceDigest.com.
If you or someone you know has experienced domestic violence and need confidential help you can contact The National Domestic Violence 24 Hour Hotline at (800) 799-7233.