Domestic violence is serious, and if a family or household member hits, hurts, or seriously threatens harm against another family or household member, a crime has been committed and the court system provides legal remedies designed to protect and help you. Domestic violence assaults can include such things as slapping, pushing, shoving, pinching, throwing a person down, pulling hair, and other unwanted violent actions. You may also be a victim of domestic violence if you have been verbally or physically threatened and are fearful of being hurt.
If you are a victim of domestic violence please call the police as soon as possible and report what the abuser has done. Officers will be sent to your location and a written report should be filled out by the police. A written report is required by law; be sure to insist that a report is completed. Also, if the police believe they have probable cause to suspect that a person assaulted you within the previous four-hour period, they are required to arrest the person who committed the assault.
We can also help you file with the Court a “civil” Order for Protection. This is an enforceable court order that will direct the abuser to stay away from you. This is different from a “criminal” no-contact order, which you may want to obtain as well.