Dealing With Verbal Abuse? Our Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Lawyer Explains Your Legal Options

Verbal abuse is when one person makes cruel comments that belittle and humiliate another. Unfortunately, it is a common problem among couples and can have severe impacts on the victim’s mental health. It can also open the door for other types of abusive behaviors. Find out more about the problem from our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer and the legal options available.

Verbal Abuse And Domestic Violence

Under the Florida Statutes, domestic violence involves assault, sexual assault, stalking, kidnapping, unlawful restraint, and other types of crime committed by one household member against the other.

Domestic violence commonly occurs between married couples and poses a serious threat to families. Verbal abuse, while not included under the state statutes, is just as harmful. Psychology Today warns that having a partner who routinely criticizes, humiliates, and puts you down can take a serious toll on you, physically as well as mentally. Common impacts include:

• Chronic pain;
• Digestive disorders;
• Sleep disorders;
• High blood pressure;
• Anxiety;
• Depression and other disorders.

In addition to the above impacts, verbal abuse is often a precursor to other types of domestic violence. As such, it is important to take it seriously. While not considered a crime under Florida law, there are still legal actions you can take to protect yourself.

How To Protect Yourself Against Verbal Abuse In Fort Lauderdale

The Florida Department of Children and Family Services reports that over 100,000 cases of domestic violence are reported throughout the state annually. Of these, police end up arresting only half of all offenders. While law enforcement does play a significant role in protecting victims, it is also crucial for you to take steps to protect yourself:

• Acknowledge that verbal abuse is typically about maintaining control of the victim, the same as any other type of domestic violence;
• Let a trusted family member or friend know what you are going through;
• Make an escape plan, just in case the situation escalates;
• Get therapy or other types of support to rebuild confidence and self-esteem;
• Consult an experienced Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer to discuss the available legal options.

In terms of legal actions: If you are married or living together and your partner verbally abuses you or any children in the home, a separation or divorce may be the best option in terms of protection. If you have children and are required to deal with a verbally abusive ex due to a Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing order, you may be entitled to modifications that restrict their parenting rights.

 For Caring Support And Trusted Legal Help, Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Lawyer

Verbal abuse is a common type of domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale and takes a heavy toll on your physical and mental health. It may also be a precursor to other aggressive behavior. To protect yourself and any children involved, get the caring support and trusted legal help you need from Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto. Call or contact us online to request a confidential consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.28.html

psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evidence-based-living/202310/verbal-abuse-leads-to-long-term-harm

myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence/resources/domestic-violence-statistics