Domestic Violence In Fort Lauderdale: Early Warning Signs A Partner Is An Abuser
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) reports one out of every four women and over one in ten men are victims of domestic violence in Florida. Many abusers appear compassionate, caring, and charismatic at first, only to act out and get aggressive once you move in together or say, “I do.”
Our Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer provides the caring support and trusted guidance clients need in these cases, taking the legal actions required to protect them. The following are common warning signs that often appear in relationships, which could indicate a potential for future and more violent types of abuse.
Eight Early Warning Signs of Domestic Violence in Broward County
The Broward County State Attorney’s Office (SAO) warns that domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender, economic status, sexual orientation, race, or religious beliefs. The SAO’s Domestic Violence Unit aims to educate and protect victims by advocating on their behalf and providing a directory of community services designed to help.
Under the Florida Statutes, domestic abuse is defined as hitting, punching, pushing, sexual assault, and other acts of violence or aggression committed against spouses, domestic partners, or others living in the home. It also includes attempts to intimidate victims and their friends or family through threats and harassment.
Domestic violence in Florida often begins subtly in a relationship and then steadily escalates. The following are eight common warning signs a partner may become abusive:
- Jealous, controlling behavior, such as monitoring your activities and accusing you of affairs or other bad behavior;
- Isolating you and preventing you from working or seeing your family or friends;
- Restricting your access to money, vehicles, and bank accounts;
- Constant criticism, put-downs, and other types of emotional abuse;
- Blaming you and making you feel guilty for wanting more from them and your relationship;
- Sudden angry outbursts, which likely follow a pattern and often occur over even minor incidents;
- Harmful, destructive behavior, such as trashing your personal property or even causing harm to pets;
- Gaslighting, denial, and blaming you for their behavior and any problems in the home.
If you notice any of the above signs in a partner or other family member, take steps to protect yourself. Confide in a few close friends or family members, keep a record of any angry or violent incidents, create an escape plan in case the situation escalates, and notify the police if you feel your safety is in danger.
To Get The Legal Help You Need, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Lawyer
Domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale is unfortunately common and can happen to both men and women. There are often early warning signs of trouble. If you are in this type of situation, seek help right away, instead of waiting for it to get worse.
As an experienced Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer, Vanessa L. Prieto can explain your options while taking the legal actions needed to protect your safety. To get the legal help you need, contact our office. Request a confidential consultation today.
Sources:
myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence/resources/domestic-violence-statistics#:~:text=1%20in%204%20women%20and,1596828650457
browardsao.com/domestic-violence-unit/
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.28.html
