What Should I Do if I or Someone I Know Is Experiencing Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is far more common than most of us realize, and the frightening truth is that it tends to escalate over time. This means that if you are experiencing domestic violence or if you know someone who is, the matter is likely to become worse, which means the risk to the victim will continue to rise without intervention. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help. Further, if you’ve been accused of domestic violence, it’s time to consult with an experienced South Carolina domestic violence attorney.
Domestic Violence in South Carolina
To begin, it’s essential to establish what domestic violence (DV) is. While we typically think of domestic violence as physical battery, this isn’t the end of the matter. In South Carolina, domestic violence refers to a pattern of abuse that causes a family member or a member of one’s household to suffer physical harm or that causes them to fear being physically harmed credibly, but it goes beyond this limited definition. Not all domestic violence cases address physical abuse. Each of the following categories can also qualify:
- Emotional abuse that involves manipulating the victim into a state of fear, dependence, or guilt
- Sexual abuse that involves forcing the victim into sexual acts against their will
- Psychological abuse involves controlling the victim’s mental state and can include intimidation, isolation from friends and family, and beyond.
- Financial abuse that involves controlling the family’s purse strings and limiting the victim’s access to family funds
Using technology to stalk, harass, or control the victim is another form of abuse that can also take a terrible toll and shouldn’t be ignored.
Taking the Steps Necessary to Protect Yourself
If you are a victim or know someone who is, you should take several essential steps. The first is taking the matter seriously – minimizing the concern or waiting to see what happens can lead to devastating results. The next order of business is reaching out for the help you need, which includes telling someone you trust. Your situation will be unique to the specific circumstances involved, but keeping the matter to yourself doesn’t do anyone any good.
If leaving is a viable option, it’s likely to be the best option. It’s important to note, however, that victims are never more vulnerable than when they’re attempting to leave their abusers, which makes proceeding with caution paramount. Consulting with a domestic violence program can help you make the right decisions for you, which may include alerting the authorities.
Make the Call to an Experienced South Carolina Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
If you’re facing a DV charge, Matthew Swilley at Swilley Law Firm, LLC – Serving Murrells Inlet and Florence, South Carolina – is a resourceful domestic violence attorney who will spare no effort to pursue your case’s best possible resolution. We’re on your side and here to help, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call 843-250-3632 for more information today.
