Domestic violence is an all-too-common problem throughout the United States, and in no place is this more true than New Jersey. In fact, according to statistics from the NJ Department of Health, 1 in 4 and 1 in men in the Garden State have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner at some point during their lives. Understanding domestic violence—and having resources available to help victims—is critical for ensuring that victims are safe and supported.
First, it's important to understand what domestic violence actually is. Domestic violence can take many forms, but all involve abuse or attempts of abuse by one person against another within an intimate relationship. This includes physical harm, verbal threats or intimidation, emotional abuse, financial control or exploitation, sexual harass
ment or assault, stalking or harassment via digital devices (including social media). Domestic violence does not always involve physical contact; emotional abuse can be just as damaging and traumatic for victims as any other form of abuse.
Domestic violence is often rooted in power and control dynamics between a perpetrator and victim. Commonly cited causes include histories of family violence, economic stressors such as poverty or lack of access to resources, substance abuse, mental illness, social isolation or withdrawal from friends or family members, and difficulty managing anger or conflict resolution skills. Let’s be clear, this doesn’t just affect the poor.Domestic violence occurs in the homes of the wealthy, famous, connected and educated. Unfortunately, it is all too common in all types of New Jersey households today.
Domestic violence can have devastating consequences for victims. Aside from physical injuries that require medical care or hospitalization, victims may experience severe depression or anxiety due to the trauma they experience. Studies have shown that domestic violence can also lead to long-term psychological issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Financial hardship due to lost wages or bills associated with medical care can also take a toll on victims’ well-being both physically and mentally.
As a child growing up in a home with domestic violence, I understand the lasting effects and trauma that can haunt victims throughout their lives.Victims can go from one abusive relationship to another and become isolated from their family for years.All the while, their children and watching and suffering.I remember imagining what it would be like to hit my mother’s abuser with one of my brother’s basketball trophies.When the day came that my twelve year old self tried to stop him, it didn’t end well.I don’t want this to happen to you or your children.
Now, I am in a position to help.
At my law office, we are committed to providing compassionate legal representation and fighting on behalf of our clients against abusers who have violated their rights regarding domestic violence. Our attorneys are knowledgeable about all aspects of family law related to domestic violence issues including obtaining restraining orders, civil restraints; filing criminal charges; protection from harassment; child custody disputes; child support; spousal support orders; adoption proceedings; name changes; visitation rights; and more. We work hard to ensure that our clients are treated with respect throughout their case and are given the best chance possible for success under the law.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please don’t wait to seek help. Not today! Affirm for yourself that you are not taking the abuse tod
ay. We are here to help you find your peace and independence. We offer free consultations for victims. Call us today at (856) 359-5222.
Take care,
Lakisha.
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