Family Law in the State of California: Identifying Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a very delicate matter that affects countless of families across the nation. Generally, domestic violence has clear and easily identifiable elements but a great part of it can also be difficult to recognize. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it is important to know that there are laws that can serve to protect you. If you are in direct and serious danger, contact emergency services by dialing 9-1-1. In effort of protecting your rights and those you love, seek the legal support of a qualified team of attorneys who will fight for your rights.
Understanding What Constitutes Domestic Violence
Domestic violence can be classified as the following:
- Physical assault
- Sexual assault
- Battery
- Willful intimidation
- Or other abusive conduct
These types of conduct can be utilized as a part of a methodological pattern of control that is committed from one intimate partner against the other. Domestic violence can also include emotional abuse, psychological violence, physical violence and sexual violence. Domestic violence can be difficult to identify for the fact that the severity and frequency of the assault can vary. The underlying factor that can pinpoint signs of abuse is the consistency of one partner’s efforts to retain control and power over the other partner.
Obtaining Protection after an Abusive Relationship
Many domestic abuse victims can find that abusive relationships are difficult to terminate. When a victim finds the courage to end the relationship or seeks help, the abuse can often intensify. Typically, the abuser can intensify the mistreatment through any of the following actions:
- Stalking,
- Harassment,
- Threatening the victim, or
- Seeking control over the victim
According to certain studies, a victim can experience even greater abuse in the aftermath of seeking for help. The increase of abuse can often lead many victims to remain in abusive relationships because of their inability to safely terminate the relationship.
When a victim finds the courage to leave an abusive relationship, he or she can find legal support that can help him or her from being harmed. One of the most vital forms of protection involves obtaining a restraining order. A restraining order can protect the victim from being contacted or harassed by the abuser. With a valid legal protection, the abuser can face penalties for continuing to harm the victim, which can lead to imprisonment. If you or someone you know is in need of a restraining order or other legal protection, seek the legal advice of a trusted attorney. An attorney who is experience in the field of domestic violence and orders of protection can direct you to the best option for your case.
The attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP are highly experienced in the field of domestic violence and orders of protection. They are dedicated to helping victims of abuse obtain the legal protection they deserve. Domestic violence is a difficult matter to overcome and it generally requires the strength and courage of victims to overcome. In order to understand what laws can protect you, seek the expertise of a proficient attorney.
Stephen Levine, is a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense — an honor achieved by only the top criminal law attorneys in California. Mr. Levine has over 40 years of experience in criminal defense and family law serving Southern California, and is a highly regarded Super Lawyer as well as AV Rated attorney.