What to Do in a Domestic Violence Situation

Roughly 33% of women and 25% of men experience some form of domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, intimidation, or other related circumstances. This is no small matter since abuse and toxicity in a domestic relationship can wreck your entire life and make it difficult to focus on anything else. When you happen to be the victim of domestic violence, you need to start getting professional help that can protect you and get you out of a bad situation. In this article, you can learn a little bit more about working through domestic violence problems. It's a matter that can save your life.

#1: Have an exit strategy to get out of the situation

You always need to have an exit strategy when it comes to your domestic violence situation. These problems often escalate, sometimes to the point of having fatal consequences. When you know that enough is enough, you need to have a safe place to go to where your partner can't reach you. Have a go-bag packed and ready, and line up a plan that can get you where you need to go quickly.

For some people, this might mean a shelter. Others might have friends or relatives they can go to. Be sure that you take your important documents, like your license, passport, and work information. Let someone you trust know where you are and what you're dealing with. From there, you should also start contacting some domestic violence lawyers.

#2: Find a domestic violence attorney

It is important to have a domestic violence attorney that can help prove your claims and let you know your rights. They will be the piece that you need to press charges. Having a professional advocate pushing the case is important because when your partner is held legally accountable, measures can be taken that will prevent them from being able to hurt you or anyone else. This lawyer should be a professional that has handled all sorts of these cases, from physical assault and battery to sexual violence and intimidation. Your attorney can help you with the early steps, such as getting a restraining order and filing your initial court papers.

#3: Stay safe while you work your case and fight for your rights

You have to take care of yourself and your safety while you pursue domestic violence litigation. Stay in your safe place and cut off all contact with the partner. Get some mental health counseling that will help strengthen your resolve and start healing as you recover from this traumatic time in your life. Communicate with your lawyer for updates and diligently listen to and heed all of their legal advice.

Use this advice when you are facing a domestic violence situation. Contact domestic violence attorneys for more legal assistance. 

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