Domestic abuse and violence can result in charges, including immediate arrest for physical violence and long-term abuse. Abused partners may face further harm if they report the abuse, but there are protections and resources available, including hotlines and shelters.
A dispute or harmful behavior within a relationship can lead to a domestic violence charge. While there may be a distinction between the terms domestic abuse and domestic violence, legally they may carry the same or similar charges. An individual can face immediate arrest if physical violence is committed against a spouse or partner, and long-term verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse can also lead to a domestic violence charge.
When the abused partner decides to take an action that leads to accusations, the volatile and harmful behavior of the abuser can escalate. Jail or jail time, loss of child custody, and protective or restraining orders can result from these charges.
Domestic abuse can be described as abusive behavior towards a partner in a marriage or relationship. Often this behavior includes verbal vilification, manipulation, and excessive control from a partner. A common description by an abused individual may include the phrase “walking on eggshells” in terms of living in an abusive relationship where care must be taken to avoid receiving name calling, threats, or denial of financial needs. When this abuse becomes physical, it is generally considered domestic violence.
Many states in the United States have specific responses and protections in place for reports of domestic or spousal abuse. Hitting, kicking and other forms of assault can lead to arrests and domestic violence charges. Threatening words and actions can also be grounds for legal action against an alleged attacker. Stalking laws can protect a partner who is separated from their spouse resulting in domestic violence charges if a restraining or protection order is violated. How an attacker is charged and convicted may depend on the location of the crime and the degree of assault or harm.
If an individual is unsure of the laws in effect, an inquiry can be made at the local police station anonymously. Authorities may find reason to recommend and issue a domestic violence charge, and steps can usually be taken to protect the abused partner before steps are taken to apprehend the abuser. When the police are called in the midst of a domestic dispute, typically one of the people involved is either removed from the situation for a set amount of time or arrested and held for conviction or further charges before a judge.
Often, long before an allegation of domestic violence is made, an abused individual may have explored options for getting out of an abusive relationship. It is usually recommended and advised to seek help through a domestic violence program or specialist shelter. Hotlines can be found in the telephone directory, and local police often provide resources to those seeking help. Being removed from an abusive living arrangement before events escalate can prevent devastating physical and emotional consequences.
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