Recovery From Domestic Violence In 2024

Nobody has the right to threaten or hurt you, physically, mentally, or sexually. When it happens at the hands of a spouse, it can be devastating for victims. In addition to the fear and anxiety of living with an abuser, recovery from domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale also poses challenges. As a new year begins, the following tips can help you through the process.

The First Step In Recovery Is Protecting Your Safety

Under the Florida Statutes, domestic violence may involve physical acts, such as punching, pushing, or slapping the victim, sexual assault, or making threats, stalking, and other harassment. The first step in the recovery process is protecting your safety and getting free of the abuse.

Many people stay in abusive situations due to financial insecurity, fear, or misplaced duty but this puts your health and safety at risk. Begin now to take the steps needed to protect yourself:

• Understand that domestic violence is generally about gaining power and control;
• Be aware that if the abuser’s power is threatened, they are likely to get worse;
• Create an escape plan in case you need to make an emergency exit;
• Let a few trusted friends and family know, who can provide emotional and practical support;
• Get counseling and contact local domestic violence shelters, which can offer a wide range of resources and services.

In making the decision to stop the abuse, there are legal options available. Our Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer can assist you in obtaining a restraining order, preventing your abuser from attempting to contact you, and granting certain rights in regard to property and children.

Make Domestic Violence Recovery A Top Priority

Domestic violence takes a heavy toll on your physical and mental health. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that it can haunt victims for long after, impacting future relationships and other aspects of their lives.

A new year provides the opportunity to make a fresh start. Make recovering from domestic violence one of your goals. Actions that can help you through the process include:

• Remember that no matter what your abuser says, you are in no way responsible for your abuse;
• Adhere to any restraining or other court orders in place, regardless of any efforts on the part of your abuser to resume the relationship;
• Follow the instructions listed in your order if your abuser tries to contact you;
• Make your employer, teacher, or others in your life aware of the restrictions you have in place;
• Create a sense of safety in your home and other environments;
• Be aware of subtle signs of abuse and use caution in entering any new relationships.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence is one of the most devastating experiences you can live through. Get the caring support and trusted legal representation you need to put a stop to it from Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto. To request a confidential consultation, contact our office today.

Sources:

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

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9654800/