Domestic violence has been and continues to be a serious problem. According to the Domestic Abuse Center, which operates a batterer intervention program, approximately 36,000 domestic assaults are reported each year. If you or someone you know has been the victim of domestic violence, you are not alone, and help is available. The first thing you need to do is to ensure the safety of yourself and your family, and then retain the law services of an attorney with experience in domestic violence cases to make sure your rights are protected.

Domestic Violence Causes Lasting Harm

The scars left by DV, both physical and.mental, can last a lifetime. Besides the often serious bodily harm, victims can experience severe depression, drug and alcohol abuse, loss of confidence and self-esteem, loss of friends, family, and income, and often wind up in legal trouble after attempting to retaliate against the perpetrator. If there are children involved, they can suffer too. Victims need someone on their side who can help them cope with the consequences of domestic violence.

Domestic Violence Law

Every state in the U.S. takes domestic violence very seriously, and though the laws are designed to protect the rights of all parties in a situation, they are especially effective at giving immediate protection to victims in the following areas:

• Protection orders. It is possible to quickly obtain a court order against an abusive spouse, former spouse, or significant other requiring them to stay away and have no contact whatsoever with you or your children. If they violate the order, they will be arrested and go to jail. You may also receive temporary child custody and possession of your car and home. 

• Separation and divorce. If you are married, a qualified attorney can provide law services to guide you through the process of a legal separation, or if you decide to divorce, domestic violence can be grounds for a faster and easier process. 

• Crime Victim Services. Domestic violence victim assistance agencies and non-profits are available in most states and cities to help with many of the problems arising from domestic violence, including providing counseling, help with medical expenses and loss of income, and loss of support. 

The law can be of assistance in many other areas than these, and you should use all the resources available. The law services of a domestic violence attorney can help you navigate the legal system and get the help you need. 

For more information about law services, speak with an attorney.