Protect Yourself from Physical Abuse in Divorce: Hire an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It is the perfect time for individuals to learn and become aware of how to protect themselves from physical abuse in divorce. This is extremely important as many believe they have no way out of their abusive and unhappy marriages. However, a domestic violence divorce lawyer knows the appropriate steps to protect yourself and get the divorce you deserve.

Defining Domestic Violence

According to the Office on Violence Against Women, domestic violence is “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner.” This can be emotional, mental, physical, sexual, and more. However, to be considered a domestic violence situation, the individuals involved must be partners or have an intimate relationship.

Domestic Violence Statistics in Georgia

The Georgia Commission on Family Violence gathered data on domestic violence in Georgia. The following are some of the statistics that individuals across the state should know about:

• About 45,000 reports of domestic violence were made to local police stations in Georgia in 2018.
• That same year, close to 27,000 protective orders were requested and approved in Georgia.
• More than 66,000 phone calls were made to various Georgia domestic violence hotlines and agencies in 2019.
• Georgia ranked in 10th place for its incidents involving men killing women.
• Over 5,000 victims of domestic violence stayed more than 70,000 nights in shelters around Georgia in 2019. More than 7,000 other victims requested to stay in shelters, but they had no space.

Domestic violence is a very real and serious issue in Georgia. Therefore, if you believe you are a domestic violence victim, you must take it seriously and get the help you need. While you may think your partner will change or become better with time, the chances of that happening are slim to none. It is common for abusers to become worse after showing remorse and sorrow.

Why You Should Hire an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer to Protect You From Physical Abuse in Divorce

Suppose you are experiencing domestic abuse in your relationship and are seeking a divorce. In that case, you should hire an aggressive divorce lawyer who will help you take action to help you get the protection you need. Gwinnett County divorce lawyer Sharon Jackson helps many clients understand the legal process and their rights regarding domestic violence and divorce proceedings. These cases can become challenging and complex, but an attorney will ensure you have the help and guidance you need to successfully get through it. Here are four reasons why you should hire an aggressive divorce lawyer when dealing with physical abuse in divorce:

1. A lawyer will ensure that the legal process remains as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.
   The divorce process can already be stressful, frustrating, and overwhelming. So, when you add domestic violence, it can make the process seem dreadful and hopeless. However, a lawyer will do everything possible to ensure that it remains as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.
2. Your lawyer will review everything you need to know and explain how domestic violence may change your divorce.
   You may not know or understand several elements and legal terms when it comes to the divorce process. You may also be curious to know how domestic violence could impact or change your divorce, which is where an attorney steps in and goes over everything you need to know regarding the divorce process and how domestic violence may affect your divorce.
3. An attorney will help you find ways to protect yourself and your children.
   While it may be easy to give up hope, an attorney will ensure that you know and utilize the various options available to protect yourself and your children during this difficult time.
4. Your attorney will also assist you with finalizing your divorce and rebuilding your life again.
   You may think that you will never make it to the finish line. However, a lawyer will be by your side every step of the way to provide you with the resources you need to finalize your divorce and rebuild your life again.

What is a Temporary Protection Order in Georgia?

An experienced family law attorney like Attorney Jackson can help advise you on your options for temporary protection orders, also referred to as restraining orders. These protection orders are essential for individuals who are victims of abuse or violence as they prohibit the accused partner from being able to speak, contact, or see you. This means you do not need to worry about being harassed, stalked, abused, or threatened while this temporary protection order is in place. If you file for a temporary protection order and are approved, it will remain in effect for at least six months and up to one year.  

A permanent protection order may be possible if you would like protection for more than one year. You must request the Supreme Court stating that you would like to be issued a permanent protection order. Attorney Jackson will be happy to sit down with you and discuss whether you might qualify for a permanent protection order and what this process may entail.

Tips for Individuals Who Are in a Marriage With Physical Abuse

Individuals in a marriage with physical abuse are often confused about what to do and where to turn to get out of their situation. If this is the case for you, you may be interested in knowing these tips that will help you start the process of getting out:

• Tell as many people as possible:
  The courts may not believe you were abused if you never shared it with anyone for 10 years and only bring it up during the divorce. 
• Take many photos:
  Take pictures of holes punched in the wall, broken objects, bruises, scratches, and anything that documents the violence. 
• Call the police and file a report:
  The more evidence you have of a history of violence, the more likely the courts will protect you. 
• Make sure your evidence is safe and secure:
  Secure your evidence in an offsite location, like the home of a friend or family member, that your spouse cannot access.
• Make an emergency exit plan:
  If you do not think you can willfully leave alone, it is time to make an emergency exit plan. Go around your home and look for windows or doors that you can sneak out of. You may also want to keep your phone and keys hidden or make plans for a friend or family member to pick you up at a certain time.
• Remember, things and stuff can be replaced, but your life cannot:
  You may be stressed about packing your clothes and your child’s belongings and toys. However, it is important to remember that things and stuff can be easily replaced, but your life cannot. If you need to leave anything behind, do not feel guilty. Your safety is the top priority.

Call a Gwinnett County Divorce Lawyer Today

If you need assistance filing for divorce from an abusive spouse, Attorney Sharon Jackson is ready and available to answer your questions and address your concerns. She is experienced, skilled, and knowledgeable about these types of cases. Therefore, you can rest assured knowing you are in good legal hands. Call our office at (678) 436-3636 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with Attorney Jackson today.