Should I Hire a Lawyer if I am a Domestic Violence Victim?

 Posted on August 25, 2022 in Family Law

Physical abuse, emotional abuse, psychological manipulation, and financial exploitation are just some of the forms of domestic violence suffered by individuals in Illinois and across the country. Domestic violence is shockingly common. Sadly, many people suffer in silence because they are not aware of the resources and legal tools at their disposal.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, you may be wondering whether or not you should hire a lawyer. Family law attorneys experienced in domestic violence matters can help you navigate complex legal issues like protective orders, child custody, and property division during divorce. An attorney’s job is to advocate for you and ensure your rights are not violated.

Taking Legal Action After Domestic Abuse

If you are unsure of whether a lawyer can benefit your particular situation, consider the following factors:

• Your immediate safety - If you are in immediate danger, then you should call the police. If you are not currently in immediate danger but are worried about your safety, then consider hiring a lawyer. A lawyer can help you get an Emergency Order of Protection and take other legal action to protect yourself.

• The frequency of the abuse - If the abuse is happening on a regular basis, then you may want to consider working with an attorney. Long-term abuse can devastate a person’s self-esteem, lead to severe mental illnesses like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and make it hard for the individual to handle tasks that require focus and concentration. Your lawyer can provide the assistance and guidance you need during this time.  

• Your relationship with the abuser -  If you have children with the abuser, if the abuser is your spouse, or if you are in any way financially dependent on the abuser, then working with an attorney is highly recommended. You will need to take precise legal action to protect yourself, your children, and your financial interests.

• The abuser's access to guns – An abuser’s access to firearms increases the risk of serious injury or death in a domestic violence situation. If this is a concern for you, then you may want to consider hiring a lawyer who can help you petition the court for a protective order that will limit the abuser’s right to possess firearms.

Contact Our Wheaton Family Law Attorneys

The DuPage County domestic violence lawyers at Goostree Law Group can help you petition the court for a protective order that requires the abuse to stay away from you, your children, and your home. We can also handle legal needs related to divorce, child custody, child support, and more. Call our skilled, compassionate team today at 630-364-4046 for a free, confidential consultation.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=075000600K214