Every year more than three million children witness domestic violence in the home. These children tend to experience abuse or neglect at high rates. Studies have found that children who are exposed to domestic violence at home are more likely to have health problems and are at risk of suffering injuries themselves in many circumstances. More than 60% of domestic violence incidents happen at home. Without help, children exposed to domestic violence in the home are more likely to commit acts of domestic violence in their future. In order to stop the cycle of domestic violence, it is important for incidents of abuse to be reported and for the court to intervene.
Orders of Protection can be the first step towards acting against domestic violence in the home. An order of protection is issued through the court to protect a person where they live, work, go to school and even prevents telephone and electronic contact. Such orders can be issued to protect the victim of the abuse as well as the children exposed to it. In an order of protecting hearing it is important that your Phoenix family law firm understands the sensitive issues involved and the scope of the hearing.
Once the safety concerns are addressed, family court involvement is often the next step. A Phoenix divorce attorney with experience in high conflict divorce cases can assist in ensuring that the proper orders are requested and that the court is aware of the serious allegations involved in the case. There are many tools available to the family court in domestic violence cases to ensure that the violence ends and safeguards are in place.
If the threat is severe, you may choose to press criminal charges. Before doing so, it is advisable to seek the advice of your divorce attorney in Arizona. Keeping organized and creating a list of all the facts prior to preparing a complaint against partner can be the difference between the court taking action or not. One should never limit their complaint to just the end result. Most often, an incident of domestic violence starts with very minute issues that escalate over time. Such details could later prove helpful during the divorce process. Safety is the primary goal. Seeking help right away and reporting acts of abuse can help avoid future incidents.
For more information on orders of protection, domestic violence representation and high conflict divorce or custody cases contact Scott Law Offices.