October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month! Beginning from just a day in October 1981, this movement has grown to encompass the entire month. Domestic Violence Awareness Month works to connect advocates and survivors of abuse in an effort to end violence against women and their children.
If you or someone you know is currently the victim of domestic abuse, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-787-3224.
What Is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive or controlling behaviors one person uses to establish power or control over a member of their household.
Examples of domestic violence include:
- physical abuse;
- manipulating you through your children;
- mental abuse;
- harming your pets;
- using extreme jealousy or possessiveness to get their way;
- isolating you from family and friends;
- threatening suicide;
- threatening murder;
- controlling family money;
- stalking; and/or
- demanding sexual favors.
Domestic violence does not strictly apply to romantic partners. It can be done to any person living in the same house; this includes roommates, children, and relatives.
Penalties for Domestic Violence
If a person is found guilty of domestic violence, they will be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties for which could be:
- up to 1 year in jail;
- 12 months of probation;
- a fine of $1,000;
- completion of a 26-week Batterer’s Intervention Program (BIP);
- 5 days of required jail time (if the defendant is adjudicated guilty and there is bodily injury);
- Community service;
- Lost of concealed carry rights; and/or
- An injunction or order of no contact with the plaintiff.
Don’t Wait! Seek Help Today.
At Law Office of Russell S. Hershkowitz, LLC, our domestic violence attorney can help you gain a restraining order against your abuser until your day in court. We can guide you throughout the court process and fight aggressively for the best interests of you and your family.
Call our firm at (407) 753-4111 or contact us online for legal counsel today.