How a domestic violence lawyer can help protect your rights and safety
Domestic violence affects millions of individuals and families worldwide. Did you know that more than 12 million women and men in the United States become victims of physical violence from intimate partners, stalking, dating abuse, or sexual assault each year?
If you’re facing domestic violence, you must know the legal options available for your protection.
According to SBBL Law, a domestic violence lawyer can help you obtain protective orders and handle the legal system.
In this article, you will learn about how domestic violence lawyers protect the rights and safety of their clients.
Understanding domestic violence and its impact
Understanding domestic violence and its impact is necessary and allows you to recognize early warning signs and seek appropriate help. Domestic violence may involve control, fear, or intimidation within a relationship. Domestic violence can manifest emotionally, physically, and even financially.
According to Scottsdale domestic violence attorney Josephine Hallam, the consequences of domestic violence can be severe, causing anxiety, depression, and isolation.
The role of a domestic violence lawyer
A domestic violence lawyer can help you address domestic violence by giving legal direction and doing the legal paperwork and court work for you.
Attorneys will simplify legal jargon so that you can understand all of the applicable laws and options. They will tirelessly manage your evidence and defend your rights in court.
A domestic violence lawyer provides emotional support and refers you to resources such as counseling or shelter. Their insight can assure legal security, raise awareness, and prepare you to handle the case fairly.
Obtaining protective orders and restraining measures
If you are a victim of domestic abuse, having a protective order is important and can offer sufficient protection.
To obtain a protective order, you must file an application with the court, describing incidents of threatening or abusive behavior toward you.
Your lawyer can guide you through this process, instructing you on the necessary documentation and standing by your side during the trial.
Once the decree is issued, always keep a copy of it with you. Inform the police if the protective order is violated to hold the abuser accountable.
Handling child custody and support issues
There is much to consider when it comes to child custody and support in connection to domestic violence. Domestic violence victims will naturally worry for his or her children. These concerns should be properly dealt with.
A domestic violence attorney could help you understand the laws you have to comply with as you seek the custody necessary for your children. You will be responsible for gathering any evidence of abuse that could establish that domestic violence occurred within your home.
Your domestic violence attorney will devise a fair child support plan that highlights how much child support you need to pay and takes into account your family’s needs.
Your lawyer can be your primary advocate in negotiating a fair resolution that is best for the children. You can rely on your legal counsel to address child custody and support issues.
Pursuing criminal charges against the abuser
Seeking legal action against the abuser will help guarantee personal safety and establish a legal record of the abuse.
Investing in a domestic violence lawyer will provide you with access to someone who can help collect evidence, file a police report, or deal with the criminal justice system. Their presence helps law enforcement authorities to take your case seriously, leading to you getting protection from the abuser.
Holding the abuser accountable through criminal charges can strengthen your bargaining position during custody negotiations.
