Hi, my name is Kirsten Krueger and two years ago, I was in a car accident. I was stopped at a stop sign when the driver behind me slammed into my car. Due to my injuries, I had to spend a few days in the hospital and I was unable to work for two months. My medical care was expensive and without being able to work, I couldn't pay my bills. The car accident was stressful enough and then I had to worry about how I would pay my bills. After speaking with a car accident lawyer, it wasn't long before I was compensated for my medical bills and lost wages from work. I'm writing this blog to help others who have been a car accident and haven't received any compensation. As you read my posts, you'll learn how an attorney can help you if you're in a vehicle accident.
It can be difficult to talk about domestic abuse or intimate partner violence with people you know. Couples often move in similar circles of friends, and it's hard to know just how someone will respond to your declaration of abuse. When all other doors seem closed to you, there are ways to make sure you're heard by the courts and law enforcement.
Enlist a Professional
While lawyers who specialize in domestic violence cases typically work for the accused, victims can find an ally with these attorneys. Hiring one can give you a way to pursue both criminal and civil cases against your abuser. This is especially helpful if you need to take out an order of protection or a restraining order.
Make sure you have documentation of the abuse in question before you go to an attorney, as there is little they can do for you without evidence. That said, most will be able to help you understand the legal maze you'll be navigating and will help you compile everything necessary to press formal charges. When it comes time to give your statement to the police you'll have someone experienced in the process on your side.
Take the Next Step
The first step most attorneys will direct you to take is a big one, and involves getting yourself and your children away from your abuser. This often means moving into a local victim shelter, though some have limits on the space available. You can also reach out to local health and human services departments to secure additional aid if necessary, such as temporary housing, financial assistance or legal aid.
If you're married to your abuser it's time to seriously consider divorce, assuming you're not already pursuing criminal charges. While most domestic violence attorneys are criminal lawyers they can still refer you to a family attorney who can take your case. This will ensure that documentation from your criminal case is passed on to the divorce attorney so that any records are complete and accurate regarding your experiences.
It's important to remember that not all abusers are habitual, but no one should feel justified in hurting another person. Should you choose to reconcile, a domestic violence attorney, like Jeffrey D. Larson, Attorney at Law, can help ensure that any order of protection issued includes conditions, which may include anger management counseling or other therapy services. The most important part of it all is making sure that you never have to go through it again.
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