How to Protect Your Legal Rights When You Are a Victim of Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is already a serious problem globally, however, according to https://www.usnews.com the situation has become even more alarming with the coronavirus pandemic forcing more people to stay indoors. If you are a victim of domestic violence, you need to understand that you deserve to live without fear. You should also know that you are entitled to receive compensation for your injuries and emotional suffering. Filing for civil damages can provide you with the economic resources to overcome the main obstacle to their being able to start a new and safe life.

What Constitutes Domestic Violence 

The law recognizes domestic violence as a behavioral pattern in which one partner uses threats, physical violence, or abuses the other partner sexually, emotionally, and economically. Additionally, isolating the partner from the outside world, destroying property, stalking, harassing through phone calls, texts, and emails, rape, or indulging in non-consensual intimate behavior are typical examples of domestic violence. As a victim of domestic violence, it may be impossible for you to either perform optimally at work or enjoy normal relationships, health, and wellness. Since the law allows you to sue your partner irrespective of your marital status, you can file a civil suit against your abuser for compensation for the physical, psychological, and emotional injuries sustained by you.

Should You Sue For Civil Damages, Criminal Charges or Both

The fact that you have filed a criminal charge for assault and battery does not prevent you from pursuing the same case in a civil court. Even though you may be reluctant to sue your abuser for obvious reasons, financial constraints may restrict you from affording housing, adequate living expenses, and expenses of transportation. You can also sue for compensation for the medical expenses, lost wages, as well as pain and suffering. You can also approach the court for punitive damages. Domestic abuse cases have multiple dimensions, which is why you must have an experienced attorney by your side. You can see Carlson Meissner Hart & Hayslett, P.A. discussing domestic violence cases by clicking here. Also locate this reputable law firm at:

A large number of child custody cases involve domestic violence. The court usually restricts the accused from enjoying custody till the couple meets the conditions mandated by the court. The accused may need to complete a treatment program before applying for visitation rights.

Suing Your Partner Can Be Empowering 

By suing abusive partners, victims of domestic violence can help themselves to move on. While a typical divorce needs a year of separation, it can be considerably speeded up if you file for domestic abuse and also make you eligible for a larger share of the marital property and assets.

Conclusion 

As a victim of domestic abuse, you can proceed with both criminal and civil charges. While the state has complete control over the criminal charges, in civil suits, you can drive the case to seek appropriate compensation for your suffering, including both economic and non-economic losses. An attorney experienced in domestic abuse cases can be the best ally in your quest for justice and a fresh life free from violence and fear.