Dealing with Domestic

In these highly stressful times, it’s possible that normal disputes between family members may escalate into something more. If you fear you or someone you know may be involved in domestic abuse, we encourage you to immediately seek help. We have compiled the following information to help you gauge if there might be a problem, and if there is, let you know where you can go for help.

Domestic isn't just physical. It also covers the threats, emotional abuse, harassment, and that a spouse, partner, or date may use to control someone else's behavior. The abuse frequently occurs in predictable patterns as part of a cycle of violence in which the behavior escalates, erupts, and then mellows into apologies. It can be directed against anyone, from children to current and former partners, roommates, and even parents.

Research reveals that domestic abuse crosses all racial, ethnic, religious, and economic lines. It also occurs in same-sex relationships.

Although both men and women can be victims of , according to the Department of Justice an estimated 90 to 95 percent of domestic violence victims are women. Women who are 16 to 24 are most at risk. Studies also show that women face the greatest danger immediately after they leave an abusive relationship.

Domestic violence is a crime in all 50 states. Most domestic abuse laws are in place at the state and local levels, and there are some federal laws as well.

The Act makes it a federal crime for a convicted abuser to cross state lines to the victim. However, research shows that arrests can continue to harass or abuse a spouse or partner, or to prevent subsequent acts of violence and help more violate a restraining order. often than not.

It's also a federal crime – and usually a state crime – That's why many states have enacted laws that give for an abuser who has a restraining order to purchase police the right to arrest suspected abusers even if the or possess firearms and ammunition. victim doesn't file charges.

Police officers used to avoid arresting anyone involved In addition to cooperating with the prosecution of in a domestic dispute, instead focusing on trying to criminal charges, the victim can also file civil charges. calm the tensions between everyone involved. Victims of domestic violence are often economically Neighbors, friends, and relatives also used to fear that calling the police would only makes things worse for Continued on next page.

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hurt in addition to the physical and emotional battering. What's Next? And victims aren't the only ones financially impaired. The Bureau of National Affairs says that domestic A full hearing usually occurs within the next 10 to 14 violence costs employers $3 billion to $5 billion a year. days. The victim has to testify before the judge, explaining the need for a permanent restraining order. The judge must be convinced by evidence, such as Getting Help police reports, photographs, medical records, and sometimes other witnesses. It's a myth to believe that victims of abuse aren't emotionally strong enough to leave their abusive The person who the restraining order is filed against situations or don't really want to. Most victims do leave must be notified by the court and asked to attend the or try to leave repeatedly, but are forced back by their hearing to present his or her side of the story. partners because of economic reasons, threats of However, if the alleged abuser doesn't show up, the physical harm, or fear for the safety of their children, court in most states will still grant the restraining order. says the American Bar Association's Commission on Domestic Violence. State regulations differ, but generally restraining orders last anywhere from three months to three That's why more shelters and legal centers are now years. During the hearing, the judge can also grant available. If you or a friend, relative, or neighbor is in child custody and visitation rights, as well as award danger of domestic abuse, experts suggest planning monetary damages. Since restraining orders are for emergencies. Set aside money, spare keys, and considered a civil matter, the alleged abuser may also copies of important documents such as passports, be prosecuted in criminal court for charges such as bank account information, insurance papers, and birth assault and battery. certificates. Leave them with a trusted friend or relative. Learn crisis hotline numbers to call for help Once someone gets a restraining order issued, the and legal advice. court or the victim must call the local police department to tell them where the abuser is restricted The first legal step against an abuser is to file for a from going and enter the information into local law restraining order. If someone is in immediate danger, enforcement computers. A restraining order issued by he or she can get an emergency protective order, also any state or Indian tribal government is valid anywhere called a temporary restraining order. This prohibits the in the United States. abuser from making any contact with the victim. The accused abuser is not allowed to come to the victim's Restraining orders don't always work, but they're an home, work, school, etc. To get an emergency important legal tool in domestic violence and stalking protective order, call the local police. Law enforcement cases. They give the criminal justice system another officials can usually obtain them after regular court means to convict the abuser. Violations of restraining hours. orders are usually considered a criminal offense. Penalties vary by state, but most are considered Temporary restraining orders usually last a few days. misdemeanors. Sentences may require counseling, To apply for a more permanent one, the person needs paying for the victim's attorney fees, jail time, to go to court to fill out paperwork. At that time, he or community service, and fines. she will need to write an affidavit that details the incidents of abuse or stalking. The person needs as There are many free legal services available for much identifying information about the accused as victims of abuse. To find out more, call the National possible, such as license-plate number, date of birth, Domestic Violence hotline for help: 1-800-799-SAFE Social Security number, and work and home (7233) addresses. The court will also ask if this person has a license to own a gun.

Adults and sometimes minors can usually petition for a restraining order without hiring an attorney. And some states, such as New Hampshire, won't even charge a court fee.

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