9 Reasons To Speak With a Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence is a very serious charge, and it can haunt somebody for the rest of their lives. If you were accused of domestic violence, or if you are a victim of domestic violence, you are likely seeking the help of an attorney.

It’s quite common, unfortunately. The sad truth is that there are over 10 million cases of domestic violence every year, and that means accusations are likely to be believed.

No matter what, if you find yourself in this situation, a domestic violence lawyer can help. Let’s talk about how.

Reasons To Speak To A Domestic Violence Lawyer: If You Are Being Abused

If you found this article because you are being abused and don’t know what to do, the situation is not going to improve itself. You should get yourself out of the situation right away, contact the police, and get yourself to safety before even thinking about a lawyer.

Once you’ve done that, you can look into prosecutorial services for your case as well as any medical or therapeutic treatment you may need.

If You Expect Abuse

Now, let’s be as clear as we can here. If you are expecting to be abused, you should follow the same steps as someone who is being abused. The first thing you should do if you see early warning signs is getting yourself out of that situation and don’t put it off for another minute. 

However, there is still cause for contacting an attorney, especially if you have children in the house, if you believe the abuser will stalk or follow you, or if you are unable to leave for one reason or another. Contact the authorities if this is the case.

If The Police Aren’t Enough

Unfortunately, many victims of domestic violence do call the police and their situations don’t improve. Whether it’s the fault of the police, a lack of evidence, or charges that just can’t stick.

Even if you have called the police, got a temporary restraining order, and everything went as it should, you will definitely need an experienced attorney at your side in court.

Also, if you’ve called the police, or if you’re preparing to call them, having a lawyer ready to go is always a good decision for your own personal safety and to walk you through the process. Achieving justice isn’t just for your own personal satisfaction, it’s also to prevent anybody else from suffering the same fate as you.

If You’ve Been Accused Of Domestic Violence

If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, everybody has the right to an attorney, and you need an experienced defense lawyer right away.

These are really serious charges that can have devastating effects on your future, your career, and your family, so getting the right defense is necessary. The person accusing you of these charges will have a prosecutor to help prove their case, so you definitely need a strong defense.

Accountability

Make sure that your rights are being respected as well, including your encounters with police and the prosecution. No matter what accusation was pressed onto you, you have rights that need to be respected.

Investigation

Attorneys have investigative skills and resources, typically including private investigators. They can get down to the details and make the perfect case for you.

If You Plan To File For Divorce

Whether you were abused or accused, you’re going to need a divorce lawyer anyway, so why not get an attorney who specializes in domestic violence? If the abuser is a spouse, an experienced attorney can help you get you into the situation you need.

This will include helping you get custody of your children, filing restraining orders, representing you in court, and making sure you are provided with a safe location to live in.

Accusations of assault on a family member will have serious implications in a divorce case. If you were accused, you run the risk of losing custody of your children and a lot more if a divorce is finalized with the belief of your abuse, making a lawyer even more necessary in this case.

Attorneys Know Who To Talk To

Don’t talk to your accuser directly. Instead, leave it up to your attorney. They know when it’s appropriate to contact the other side’s attorney, your accuser directly, the police, or any other party involved. Taking matters into your own hands may only get you into trouble, so leave it up to the professionals.

Have a Professional On Your Side

When somebody accuses you of domestic violence, it doesn’t just hurt you legally, but socially. It can harm your reputation and make you a lot of enemies. If you hire the right attorney, you’ll have a professional fighting with you, by your side, every step of the way to make sure you get all the help you need.

Save Yourself Stress

It takes a lot of work and a lot of hassle to prepare for court, and the only way you’ll have to go through all the tedious details is if you do it alone. Save yourself the hassle and let a professional handle the groundwork so you can focus on putting this behind you.

Get Help Today

Now that you know why you need a domestic violence lawyer, the time to call is now. Don’t let your rights be taken away from you because of someone else’s accusations, and don’t keep yourself in an abusive relationship.

Before you make your decision, keep yourself safe by doing your research on some questions to ask when hiring a domestic violence attorney.