How to Protect Yourself From Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is one of the most heinous and damaging crimes imaginable, but unfortunately, it is a major issue all over the world. What makes the problem so difficult to eradicate is the low percentage of victims who report the violence to the authorities. There are a number of reasons for this including fear, psychological and emotional control, the perceived shame of a broken relationship, and a reluctance to leave children or break up a family. Far too often, unreported domestic violence spirals out of control which can have deadly consequences. It is so important that steps are taken to end domestic violence however possible. To help anyone who is currently in an abusive relationship or home, this article is a guide on how to protect yourself from domestic violence.

Call Somebody

The first thing you should consider doing if you are a victim of domestic violence is to call the police. Whilst this may seem simple, it is often far from easy for victims because they are scared of the repercussions for reporting their abusers. It is so important if your health and safety are at risk to get yourself out of that situation in any way possible and calling the police will ensure that you are at least temporarily protected so that you can leave the house and take further steps. As well as the police, calling a national domestic violence helpline can alert the authorities to your situation and they will be able to advise you on how best to protect yourself and get out of the situation. If you have friends or family members who know that you are in an abusive relationship, then one safe way of seeking help is to use a predetermined code. For example, if your friend knows that your partner is violent, decide on an innocent-sounding phrase that will tell them you are in danger. This might be asking after their puppy’s health when they don’t actually have a puppy or canceling a coffee date that was never arranged.

File for an Injunction

An injunction is the same as a restraining order and offers protection to the victims of domestic violence by prohibiting their abusers from contacting them or coming near them. The experts at https://www.fighterlaw.com/practice-areas/criminal-defense/injunctions/ explained that there are various types of injunctions that you can file for, such as a domestic violence injunction, a repeat violence injunction, and a stalking injunction. The subtle differences between the different types of injunctions does not change their purpose or their effectiveness in protecting victims. Often a temporary injunction will be placed on the accused initially so that the alleged victim is protected whilst awaiting a court hearing or trial. At those hearings, a permanent injunction may then be placed on the perpetrator affording the victim potentially lifelong protection. 

Domestic violence is a real scourge on our society and it can have serious effects on victims’ physical, mental, and emotional safety. Because abusers usually exercise so much control over their victims, domestic violence is sadly so unreported. If you are the victim of domestic violence, speak to someone who will help you to get out of the abusive situation, and then seek legal protection immediately.