Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a commonly misunderstood crime and can manifest itself in many forms. As part of the abuse, victims are often manipulated into thinking that behavior is justifiable, acceptable, and will stop.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

Have I been hit, punched, choked, slapped, or physically restrained?
Has my partner made threats toward me, the children, or other family members?
Have I been verbally abused?
Have I been sexually abused?
Do I make excuses for the other party’s behavior?
Do I blame the behavior on drinking or drug use?
Do I blame a bad childhood? Stress? Myself?
Do I feel completely controlled by my partner? Does he/she control me with money?
Have I been isolated from friends or family? Have my friends told me that they don’t like my partner? Have they stopped calling me? When was the last time that I spent time with my family?

Domestic violence can be: physical (ex: hitting), emotional, sexual (ex: rape), verbal, and even financial. Domestic violence in all its forms is a serious crime and one that must be addressed immediately for the health and welfare of yourself and your family.

What to do if you are being abused:

If you are in danger or think you might be, immediately call 911.
Make sure that you are in a safe place.
When police arrive, ask police to arrest the abuser and ask for an Emergency Protective Order.
Utilize local resources to help protect you such as:

LACBA Domestic Violence Project: Volunteer attorneys, law students, and staff provide one-on-one legal assistance for the preparation of documents to file for a Temporary Restraining Order. A donation of $20 is requested.
Domestic Violence Council (County of Los Angeles): For information on domestic violence resources.
Safe at Home: A free P.O. box offered through the California Secretary of State so that victims of abuse can keep their address confidential while receiving mail, opening bank accounts, getting a driver’s license, enrolling a child in school, etc.