Speaking Up About Domestic Violence In Your Relationship
While it is not always talked about openly, domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale is a common problem and frequent factor in divorce. Due to years of physical and emotional abuse, it can be hard for victims to come forward. In doing so, they often have concerns over who to trust and the amount of detail they should share. Our Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer offers some guidance on when to speak up.
Discussing Your Situation With Family, Friends, and Your Employer
Under the Florida Statutes, domestic violence consists of aggressive actions, such as hitting, pushing, and making verbal threats, stalking, harassment, and other troubling behavior on the part of one family member to another. Between the fear and shame surrounding the situation, it takes great courage for victims to speak up. However, telling people you trust is often the first step in getting help.
Family members and trusted, close friends are often the first people to turn to. These can provide emotional support, along with practical help. Details you may want to share include:
- The types of abuse happening;
- When it is most likely to occur;
- Threats made toward you, them or others involved;
- Your concerns about leaving the relationship and any obstacles you need to overcome.
If you work outside the home, you may also want to inform your employer, as domestic violence can spill over into the workplace. Your spouse may attempt to visit you on your job, communicate with you by office phone or through company emails, or even contact your employer or co-workers.
In general, the best course of action is typically to speak with your immediate supervisor, provided they are someone you can trust. They can guide you in filing others in, such as the business owner or any security guards on the premises.
Addressing Domestic Violence In The Courts
Once you have made the decision to discuss your situation with family or friends, the next step is taking action through the court. Depending on the details surrounding your specific case, you may be entitled to obtain a restraining order, or Florida Injunction for Protection Against Domestic Abuse. This can help protect you and your children physically and financially while preventing an abusive spouse from contacting you in any way.
If you decide to file for divorce through the Broward County Family Court, domestic violence accusations can also have a major impact on your case. It is likely to factor into important decisions, including:
- Marital property and asset division;
- Spousal support;
- Child time-sharing and child support.
One area you should avoid discussing anything about the situation is social media. It is best to keep a low online profile during divorce proceedings, to avoid providing the abuser information that could be used against you.
Reach Out To Our Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Lawyer
As an experienced Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer, you can count on Vanessa L. Prieto to provide caring support and the professional legal representation you need. To request a confidential consultation, call or contact us online today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.28.html
flclerks.com/page/HDI_DomesticViolence
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
