What Is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is defined as a person being abused physically, verbally, emotionally, or psychologically by another person with whom they are in an intimate or familial relationship. This also includes the threat of abuse. Abuse can take a multitude of forms such as intentional or reckless physical assault, sexual assault, genuine threat of abuse, or acts such as stalking, hitting, shoving, pushing, throwing objects, kicking and scaring. Furthermore, if a person controls every aspect, movement, or decision of another individual, that is also considered abuse. Not only does domestic violence affect adults in a variety of relationships, but it also can threaten or hurt a child. In all cases of domestic violence, victims are encouraged to speak up and seek help; California has numerous Self-Help Centers and Family Law aids.
Seeking Justice
Based on the case, one of the methods of protection for victims is a domestic violence restraining order. These orders can be filed if you have been abused or threatened by it, or filed for a child below the age of twelve. There are specific criteria that need to be met in order to file a domestic violence restraining order; however, if an individual does not meet these, they can file other restraining orders for workplace violence, civil harassment, or elder adult abuse. The domestic violence restraining order can restrain the abuser of contact with you, owning firearms, and incurring costs that affect your personal accounts. Furthermore, it can force the person to pay child and/or spousal support, pay specific bills, and move out of the residence you share. The person restrained will experience severe consequences for their actions.
Conclusion
If you are a victim of domestic violence, you can seek help at various shelters and legal aid offices. They can help you decide what your next step should be, and how to find a lawyer in your area. If you, or a dependent, need emergency help, please go to an emergency shelter in your community, or speak with the police.
