Everyone has the right to a safe and healthy relationship, but unfortunately, abusive marriages aren’t uncommon. In fact, according to national crime statistics, an average of 20 men and women are physically assaulted by their partner every minute in the United States. If you’re in an abusive relationship, knowing your legal rights and having a plan can help you get out safely.
Red Flags
It can be difficult to believe in your sense of self-worth in a harmful relationship. This dynamic is especially confusing between intimate partners because abuse isn’t always as obvious as physical violence. It’s about control. A wide range of behaviors can be considered domestic violence. Furthermore, victims tend to justify or minimize mistreatment, which is actually a normal response to trauma. Below are some common
signs of abuse:
- Jealousy and possessiveness
- Needing to know where you are or who you’re with
- Criticism and humiliation
- Throwing things or punching walls
- Control of your finances
- Isolating you from friends and family
- Threats
Legal Action
Restraining Orders
You have the legal right to be free from all forms of relationship abuse. Restraining orders can be used to help you get out of an abusive relationship. It’s an order from the court meant to protect a victim from contact with their abuser. Offenders who fail to comply are subject to fines and jail time. There are three kinds of restraining orders: emergency protective orders (which are issued by the police and signed off by a Judge), temporary restraining orders, and permanent restraining orders.
Support is Available
Choosing to leave a violent situation is brave, and it’s not something anyone has to go through alone. Resources are available, like the National Domestic Violence Hotline. For more information on your legal rights in an abusive relationship, please contact us for a free consultation at Whipple, Mercado, & Associates.