What Are The Legal Rights of Domestic Violence Victims?
According to statistics, most cases of domestic violence are not reported to law enforcement, either by the victim or by the other members of the family who watch the victim get abused and tortured every day. It is unfortunate that we live in a world where problems like this and worse still exist. Thankfully, the victims have certain legal rights.
If you are a domestic violence victim, and also you have certain rights to protect yourself that you must know about. Most victims keep suffering because they think they are helpless, which is untrue. Look up “domestic violence lawyer near me” and speak to a professional today to understand your rights. Meanwhile, here are some important legal protections to know about. \
The legal rights of domestic violence victims
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Protection orders.
Protection orders, also known as restraining orders, legally prohibit an individual from contacting or even being within a certain radius of another individual. Furthermore, If someone has been abusing or even making a threatening to harm you physically, such that, you can file a restraining order against them. Restraining orders can either be temporary or permanent. One good thing about these protective orders is that you do not need to provide evidence to get a temporary restraining order. The court will provide you with one as soon as you request it.
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Access to emergency services.
The general public has access to emergency services such as law enforcement, ambulances, firefighters, etc. It is important for every victim to know the numbers of each emergency service so that they can dial them in cases of immediate danger. Even if your abuser is in the same room or house when you call them, try using words that do not make the problem obvious. Emergency service personnel are typically trained to handle situations like this.
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Criminal prosecution.
When a person physically, mentally, as well as even emotionally, or financially abuses you, they are normally considered a criminal in the eyes of the law. This is because they are causing intentional harm to an individual, particularly someone who is a family member. Physical assault, sexual assault, or threats are illegal acts punishable by years of imprisonment. By providing a statement and speaking as a witness, you can start the criminal prosecution of your abuser.
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Counseling and support services.
It is not uncommon for domestic violence victims to feel alone and unsafe on this difficult journey. There are many government-funded counseling and support services for domestic violence and abuse victims. Counseling, therapy, and support groups can help victims feel less alone and overcome the terrible things that have happened to them.
Hire an attorney today.
