Are You A Victim of Domestic Violence?

In legal terms, domestic violence must meet one of the following requirements:

1.        Are you suffering from any wound or other injury inflicted by your own act inflicted by another where the injury is by means of a firearm?

2.        Are you suffering from any wound or other physical injury inflicted upon yourself where the injury is the result of assaultive or abusive conduct?

Let’s explore the two requirements listed above. Both of these questions are asking: Has someone caused an injury to your body which was a direct effect of something you did or said? Was this injury a result of assaultive or abusive conduct? Assaultive or abusive conduct includes murder, manslaughter, torture, battery, sexual battery, incest, assault with a deadly weapon, rape, spousal rape and abuse of spouse or cohabitant.

If you believe you are a victim of domestic violence, it is time to take the following steps:

1.        Gather the correct information. Note the date, time, and address of the incident, and be sure to give the police as much information as possible.

2.        Call 911 to make a report as the domestic violence is happening.  Find a safe place to hide while waiting for the police to arrive.

3.        Get in touch with the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE) soon after the incident. It is important to find support.

4.        Prepare to go to court. Hire a family lawyer. There is a chance you will have to appear as a witness to prosecute your offender.

Please contact our office for afree consultation if you are experiencing domestic violence, or encourage a family member or friend you believe is in need of assistance to do so. Remember that domestic violence can happen to both men and women, and we are here to help.

We want to help you get through this legal process as painlessly as possible.  Please contact Rauseo Law for additional information.

Here are some sources to aid you in the healing process:

1.        Seek counseling from a local psychologist. Make sure you find an accredited therapist who specializes in family issues.

2.      Visit the Web site for the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.