Safety Risks
Court protection is not a guarantee that you will be safe. Just as the courts have literally saved some women and children from further abuse, there are also tragic instances in which engaging the legal system increased the abuser’s aggression and led to further harm or even murder for the victim and her children.
Learn more about safety planning.
Sometimes you may decide to engage the courts; other times you may not have control over the decision– such as when the police are called for a domestic violence incident and charges are automatically filed. There may be times when your abuser files criminal charges against you to frame you as the abuser.
Even when the decision is voluntary, engaging the courts is still a complicated process and should always be done with help from a domestic violence professional.
Some factors to consider:
- Will I be safer if I leave the relationship?
- Will my children be taken away from me if I leave?
- Will my children have to see the abuser if I leave?
- Will my community reject me if I want to leave the abusive relationship?
- Can I financially afford to survive on my own?
A domestic violence professional in your community can help you evaluate the best course of action for you and your children.
Information contained on this website should not be construed as legal advice. Read full disclaimer.