It’s hard to know exactly what to do in a domestic violence situation. Hise we outline what constitutes “domestic violence” and some steps you might want to take if you find yourself in a domestic violence situation.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DEFINITION
The U.S. Department of Justice defines domestic violence as: “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person.”
WHAT TO DO
If you are afraid and do not know what to do during a domestic violence situation, the first thing you should do is call the police. They will be able to protect you as well as help you and any children leave the home. They will be able to arrest your abuser based on the evidence and information you provide them with. This evidence can be: signs of physical abuse such as hitting, punching, cutting, or kicking, or any property damage. The police are required to then fill out a police report alleging what happened to you and what they saw when they arrived at the scene.
WHAT TO DO NEXT
Make sure you make your own report, citing what happened, when it happened, as well as what happened when the police arrived. You’ll want to record the officers’ names, badge numbers, and the report number so you can get a copy of the report. The police can help you find a shelter as well as provide you information on domestic violence programs. Additionally, if you need to get medical attention, they will help you get the attention you need.
CONTACT A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY
The first step is getting out of the immediate situation. Once you are in a safe place, you should contact a domestic violence attorney that can help you build your case so that you can get legal protection from your abuser.
For advice on domestic violence, you need the expert law firm of (619) DIVORCE, APC.. Schedule a consultation today.
Sources: DomesticViolence.org, What Can I Do To Be Safe? 2014 and Department of Justice, Domestic Violence, 2014
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