Domestic violence is on the rise: Know your rights
One of the unintended, yet sadly predictable, consequences of the COVID-19 lockdown was the increase of domestic violence rates.
Whether it’s spousal, child, or other abuse, these acts of violence are on the rise. No one has the right to lift a hand to you or to mentally abuse you. But a lot of these cases occur because the victim doesn’t know their rights or feels like they have no way out.
Informing yourself about the help and rights you have is the first step to building your exit strategy. Before you stay another day in an unsafe situation, read this guide to your basic human rights that protect you from harm.
You’re human, and you have rights
As domestic violence calls skyrocket, it’s terrifying to realize that so many people have no regard for the basic human rights we’re all entitled to. Even more disconcerting is the realization that some people don’t know their rights, or don’t believe they deserve them.
Each country is different, but in Australia, everyone has legally-backed federal rights. Here are the basics you should know:
- All Australian States and Territories have legislation to protect victims of domestic violence.
- Each jurisdiction has a variety of different approaches and provisions.
- These scopes are similar along matters such as the types of conduct that make up domestic violence and when a protection order is made with the help of an expert protective order attorney.
- Domestic violence victims have consistent rights across the country. It’s possible to get temporary injunctions for emergency situations. You don’t need to appear before a court for those.
- Domestic violence victims have the right to be treated with fairness, respect, and dignity.
- As a domestic violence victim, you have a right to be protected from your accused offender under reasonable provisions.
- It’s a punishable offence to publish or make known the name or identifying information of a minor in a domestic violence case.
You don’t have to be a victim to a would-be abuser. It is not your fault, no matter what you ‘think’ you did, because no one has the right to physically abuse you.
It’s normal to feel scared and helpless, but the truth is that you are not. There is legal help available for you, no matter where you are. Since each jurisdiction has its own procedures and regulations, every area has unique helpers who know what you need.
Melbourne family lawyers are ready to help those who were a victim of domestic violence in the area. You can find some legal reps who will give you a free consultation to let you know how they can assist you with your journey.
But it all starts with one step. You don’t have to climb the mountain alone. Know your rights, and be ready to ask for help. With domestic violence rates on the rise, you have more organizations and legal aid than ever on your side.
Call one of themany hotlines, where you can stay anonymous or get help quickly. Remember, no one has the right to make you feel unsafe, and you have options.
