When Domestic Violence Becomes An Issue During A Fort Lauderdale Divorce
The process of getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale tends to be emotionally charged and can become highly contentious. Sadly, anger over your marriage ending and the circumstances surrounding Broward County divorce proceedings can escalate to the point that one party starts harassing the other or making threats.
Domestic violence (DV) is common during divorce. Regardless of whether your spouse was abusive during your marriage, our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer wants you to be aware of common types of abusive behavior and how to protect yourself.
Common Types of Domestic Violence In Fort Lauderdale Divorce Cases
Domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale divorce cases can take many forms. In some cases, a spouse is abusive during the marriage, and the situation becomes even more dangerous in divorce proceedings. In others, abusive behavior begins with the breakup and can escalate over the weeks or months ahead.
Statistics from Florida Health Charts show that close to 3,000 cases of domestic violence in Broward County are reported each year. Common types of abusive behavior that can arise during a divorce case include:
- Stalking and harassment, either in person, online, or via phone calls and texts;
- Emotional and psychological abuse, such as gaslighting and making threats,
- Verbal abuse, such as insults, name-calling, and other belittling behavior;
- Financial abuse, such as hiding money or assets
- Physical abuse, such as grabbing, hitting, pushing, choking, and sexual assault.
If you are experiencing any of these forms of abuse, get legal help immediately.
Steps to Protect Yourself from Domestic Violence During A Fort Lauderdale Divorce
Under the Florida Statutes, domestic violence is a serious crime. If your spouse becomes abusive when getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, there are legal protections available to help.
The top priority in this type of potentially dangerous step is to protect yourself. Taking proactive steps can provide peace of mind and reduce the risk of harm. These steps include:
- Get the support you need: Let trusted friends or family know what is happening. Be aware of domestic violence resources in Broward County.
- Notify the police of any incidents: Provide officers with a detailed description of what happened and get a copy of the police report.
- Gather other evidence: Keep records of threatening messages, incidents of violence, and police reports. Get written statements from family, friends, or other witnesses.
- Notify your divorce lawyer: We can help you get a restraining order and take other legal steps to protect your rights, safety, and overall well-being throughout the divorce process while fighting to get you the maximum amount you are entitled to in a settlement.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer Today
Abusive behavior can develop during divorce proceedings, putting your health and safety at risk. As an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer, Vanessa L. Prieto provides caring support to clients in these cases. We help you navigate this difficult situation and take the legal actions needed to protect you. To schedule a consultation, call or contact our Fort Lauderdale office online today.
Sources:
flhealthcharts.gov/ChartsDashboards/rdPage.aspx?rdReport=NonVitalIndNoGrp.Dataviewer&cid=312
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.28.html
flcourts.gov/content/download/685947/file_pdf/12.980%28a%29.pdf
