Domestic violence includes controlling behavior toward intimate partners or family members, aggression and violence. The most common victims of domestic violence are women, but they can also happen to men. Domestic violence occurs in both heterosexual and same-sex couples. It is not only limited to spouses, but can happen to any household member, such as if adult children abuse their elderly parents.

Domestic violence is prohibited by law. When someone violates the Domestic Violence Act, they are liable for a criminal complaint and may be given a temporary restraining order. Signs of domestic abuse are often visible before the behavior becomes extreme and results in criminal acts. Such signs must be addressed immediately for the wellbeing of the victim’s physical and mental health. If you or someone close to you is a victim of domestic violence, it is best to engage an experienced attorney to help handle the case.

Signs of Domestic Violence

The signs of domestic violence can usually be seen through one’s behavior. If you see any of these behaviors in your partners or household members, you should not hesitate to get help. They include:

Anger management problems: Unpredictable and volatile temper.
Jealousy issues: Excessive possessiveness, limiting victim’s access to other people, or restricting phone or computer use.
Economic abuse: Limiting victim’s financial independence through restricting access to finances.
Emotional abuse: Hurting victim emotionally through name calling, criticizing and threatening.
Sexual abuse: Forcing victim to engage in sex or intimate physical contact.
Physical abuse: Hurting victim physically by hitting, slapping or more.
Property destruction: Destroying victim’s belongings
Child abuse: Threatening to harm or harming a child to gain emotional control over their parent.

Creating a Safety Plan

If you are facing immediate danger, you should call the police or go to the police station nearest to you. Take your children along with you if you have any. If you feel that your self-esteem and confidence has suffered because of your relationship, and that you are afraid of your partner or household member, it is a telltale sign that you should get help. Approach someone you trust to talk about your problems if you feel you are getting abused in your household.

Helping Others Get the Help They Need

Friends and family of those who are suffering domestic violence often do not know how they can help, and sometimes have difficulties comprehending why the victim does not want to take action. One of the best ways to help someone who is getting abused domestically is to help them recognize the obstacles they are facing in reporting the abuser. Providing information and support is the best way to help the victim overcome mental barriers and seek help.

Romanowski Law Offices Can Help with Domestic Violence Cases

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, an experienced attorney specializing in family law will be able to help with the case. Attorney Romanowski has been selected as the Nation’s Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel, and is named “Top 10” in New Jersey by the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys. As such, you can be assured that Attorney Romanowski is one of the most reliable and experienced family law attorneys around, and will be able to help with domestic violence cases.

Identifying Domestic Violence