Help for Loved Ones Who Are Victims of Domestic Violence
Victims of domestic violence or abuse often suffer in silence, fearing either retaliation from their abuser or blame from others. Many victims feel trapped, with no safe place to go and choose to stay and try to minimize the risk of further injury. They constantly seek ways to make it appear to the outside world that they are okay. There are telltale signs, though, that often cannot be masked. This blog post identifies many of the symptoms of domestic abuse, the cycle of violence that is typically a part of domestic violence, and the legal options victims have.
Potential Signs of Domestic Abuse
Some of the more obvious manifestations of domestic violence are frequent injuries or frequent absence from work or social events. Typically, when your loved one has outward signs of abuse, they will either refer to their clumsiness or bad luck, always making excuses for their injuries. In some instances, if possible, they will dress in clothing that seeks to hide evidence of abuse. They may wear long pants or shirts in warm weather, or wear shades inside or in dim lighting. When they cannot hide their bruises or scars, they will customarily not come to work or to other events.
There are more subtle changes in personality and behavior that can be early warning signs of domestic violence. Most abusers have a need to control all aspects of their victims' lives. Accordingly, they will rarely, if ever, allow the victim to go anywhere on their own. Even when they do go out in public, they tend to be close by at all times, so that they can monitor and manage conversation and behavior. They may not allow the victim to have any money or access to credit cards so that they cannot be independent.
Additional signs of an abusive relationship include:
- A requirement that a person "check-in" with their spouse or partner on a regular basis, reporting where they are and who they are with
- An obsessive need to please a partner, and to agree with everything they say
- Frequent, and often harassing, phone calls from a partner
- References to a partner's temper, jealousy or possessiveness
Contact the Pfister Family Law Today
At Pfister Family Law, we bring more than 20 years of experience to men and women throughout north Texas. Attorney John Pfister is board-certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. We understand that every case is unique, and take the time to learn the details of your situation so that we can formulate a specific strategy to get the outcome you want. We offer experienced and successful trial counsel, or can help you to resolve your family law differences through alternative means, including negotiated settlements or mediation.
For an appointment with an experienced divorce lawyer, contact our office by e-mail or call us at (972) 370-5172.