Domestic Violence & Divorce Help

Two interrelated objectives often exist when a person faces domestic violence. First, an immediate need for safety and security exists. Second, ending the abusive relationship normally is the wisest course of action to pursue. If you find yourself the victim of domestic violence, you need to know what divorce and related resources are available to you.

Domestic Violence Defined

The basic definition of what constitutes domestic violence is an going pattern of abusive behavior, according to the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women. The abuse can be physical, sexual, mental or emotional in nature. The abuser attempts to obtain and then maintain power of the intimate partner through this conduct and behavior.

Immediate Safety

Finding yourself in an abusive situation, the most immediate objective is safety, according to National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence. Removing yourself from an abusive relationship is far easier said than done. Therefore, you necessarily want to avail yourself of resources that provide comprehensive services to permit you the ability to separate from an abusive situation and into a safe environment. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE to access resources in your local community.

Free or Low-Cost Legal Services

The next step in permanently removing yourself from may be ending your marriage. Because of your situation, you may be unable to afford private legal counsel. Alternatives to retaining a private attorney exist, including the legal aid organization in your community. Legal aid organizations provide no- and low-cost representation to people who are unable to hire an attorney on their own. Additionally, most law schools maintain clinics. Through these clinics, students in their final year of study provide representation at no cost under the supervision of licensed attorneys.

Restraining Order

Obtaining a restraining order usually is an appropriate, if not necessary, course in a situation of domestic violence and divorce. In most counties in the United States, the local court provides standard forms and assistance to obtain a temporary restraining order immediately, according to "Nolo's Essential Guide to Divorce" by Emily Doskow. The office of the court clerk can assist you in accessing these resources.

Warning

Despite promises from your partner, understand that--in the vast majority of cases--abuse does not end. The reality is that abuse and violence are likely to accelerate over time.