Domestic Violence and Divorce

Domestic violence is a pervasive problem within all sectors of American society. Regardless of income, race, or location, statistics indicate that violence is prevalent component of many intimate relationships. If you are in a relationship and your significant other has resorted to violence, you need to remove yourself from the situation and file for a protective order against the offender. If you have children, it may be in their best interest to prevent your significant other from visitation.

Statistics

According to statistics gathered from the National Domestic Violence Research Center:

o Women accounted for 85% of the victims of intimate partner violence, men for approximately 15%.

o It is estimated that between 960,000 and 3 million incidents of violence against a current or former spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend occur each year

o Women ages 20-24 are at the greatest risk of experiencing nonfatal intimate partner violence

o Nearly 2.2 million people called a domestic violence crisis or hot line in 2004 to escape crisis situations, seek advice, or assist someone they thought might be a victim

o 25% of women have experienced some form of domestic violence in their lifetime

What Constitutes Violence?

Many people are unaware of the types of behavior which can constitute as violence. It may be surprising to learn, for example, psychological abuse is considered violence. The law recognizes all of the following actions as a form of domestic violence.

Physical abuse-Any unwanted physical contact, such as pushing, shoving, hitting, punching, slapping, etc.

Psychological abuse-This a broader category of violence that encompasses verbal threats, intimidation tactics, manipulation, isolation, and brain washing

Sexual Abuse-Forcing your partner to partake in any non-censual sexual act

Economic Control-Severely limiting your partner's actions by means of controlling finances can be considered domestic violence. For example, if an individual does not have the means to buy necessary goods for their wellbeing because their partner controls the money.

Stalking-Obsessively following an individual's actions and infringing on their rights to privacy

Divorce and Protection

If you are the victim of domestic violence, you need the help of a skilled divorce attorney who can ensure the safety of you and your children by filing a protective order. A protective order is much more effective than a restraining order for preventing harassment and abuse from the offender. Additionally, an abusive partner should be considered when filing for divorce, as it should affect the offender's visitation rights.

For more information on domestic violence and how it can affect your divorce, contact the Austin divorce lawyers of Slater Kennon & Jameson, LLP today.

Joseph Devine