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Dealing with Domestic Violence

Did you know that 4,774,000 women experience physical violence from an intimate partner every year? Did you know that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will be victims of domestic abuse from an intimate partner in their lifetimes? The impact of domestic violence is shocking, and it negatively impacts the entire family. Fortunately, the state of Maryland has measures in place to ensure the safety of any abused partner and their children.

Domestic Violence 101

Domestic violence is broadly defined to be the intimidation, physical assault, sexual assault, battery or performance of other abusive behavior as part of a pattern of dominance and control perpetrated by one intimate partner. Domestic violence can include psychological violence, sexual violence, emotional abuse and physical violence. While every situation can be different in terms of severity and frequency, the underlying denominator is one partner consistently taking steps to maintain control and power over the other partner.

The Effect of Domestic Violence on Children

It isn’t easy to get the courage to talk to a lawyer about your situation. However, we are here to help. The pervasive effects of domestic violence are devastating not only to the partner involved but also to any children in the household. Violence in the home can lead to:

  • Isolation: Trouble developing social skills, feeling alone, lack of friends due to fear over bringing them to the house, not trusting adults
  • Physical and Mental Effects: Feeling shame and guilt, regression to earlier stages of childhood development, demanding or pushy attitude, withdrawal from social situations, craving reassurance from those around them
  • Fear: Experiencing fear due to loud actions and gestures, arguments, destroying property, abusing pets or physical violence
  • Sexual Stereotyping: Mimicking the behavior of the abuser, mimicking the behavior of the victim, having difficulty articulating and positively expressing feelings
  • Threats and Anger: Learning how to manipulate those around them, expressing violence and anger, withholding anger because of fear
  • Family Trouble and Resentment: Being placed in the middle of fights, forcing children to resolve conflicts or pick a side, adopting parental behaviors in place of either parent

To prevent further negative effects, addressing domestic violence early is essential.

Contact Counsel as Soon as Possible

If you are dealing with custody or domestic violence issues as you enter the holiday season this year, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. The sooner in the process you contact an experienced lawyer, the better. Lebovitz Law can assist you in preparing for protective order hearings and other court filings. To learn more about how we can assist you, please contact us today.

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