If you are a victim of domestic violence or believe you are in immediate danger from your spouse or partner, a domestic violence attorney can help.
Domestic violence affects millions of people every year. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe physical violence, contact sexual violence, or stalking by an intimate partner, which can result in injury and psychological trauma. Over half of female victims reported being raped by an intimate partner, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. As we observe this important awareness campaign, it’s critical to stay informed about ways to protect ourselves and those we love. In many cases, a domestic violence attorney can help file an injunction against an abusive partner.
If you are the victim of assault, battery, or sexual violence, you should first call the police to ensure your safety and to thoroughly document your case. After that, you should call an experienced domestic violence attorney to discuss your full options.
What is a domestic violence injunction?
An injunction, also known as a protective order or temporary restraining order, is a court order that directs a person to not have any contact with the victim. The violation of an injunction can result in fines and even jail. For married or domestic partners, a domestic violence injunction can grant the victim exclusive use of the home and require the respondent to surrender any weapons to law enforcement.
While an injunction cannot prevent domestic violence from occurring, it can deter contact and provide the victim with an avenue to seek recourse. It is one legal means of protection against violence and threats of violence.
Who can I file a petition for a domestic violence injunction against?
In Florida, you can file a domestic violence injunction against anyone who has lived with you as “family,” including:
- Relations by blood or marriage (spouses, ex-spouses, parents, aunts, uncles, step-parents, step-children, children, etc.)
- Intimate partners who are not married but live together
- The parent of your child, regardless of marriage or living situation
If you have questions about your situation, you should speak to a domestic violence attorney.
Can a domestic violence attorney help with other scenarios?
Aside from a domestic violence injunction, you may also file a civil injunction petition for sexual violence, dating violence, and repeat violence. A domestic violence attorney can help you figure out which type of injunction is appropriate for your situation.
A domestic violence attorney may also be able to help if you are the victim of stalking. Watch my video below to learn more:
Protect Yourself and Contact a Domestic Violence Attorney Today
If you need help protecting yourself from a spouse or intimate partner, it is critical to act quickly. Contact me today so that we can discuss your situation and get you the protection you need.
About the Author: Helena Y. Farber is a Divorce attorney in Aventura, Florida, whose practice is concentrated in the areas of divorce and family law. She can be reached at (305) 520-9205 or via email at hyf@farberlawpa.com.
Disclaimer: The attorney makes this Blog available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site, you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the Blog. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.