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What constitutes domestic violence?

One common reason police are called out to a situation is to resolve a potential domestic violence incident. But what exactly is domestic violence? Despite what some in Virginia may believe, domestic violence can take many forms, well beyond that of physical violence.

Domestic violence does include physical violence, but may also include other forms of violence including emotional abuse, such as minimizing a spouse’s importance or self-worth in the family. Domestic violence also includes economic abuse by controlling the finances and making one spouse feel dependent and reliant on the controlling spouse. Sexual abuse can also be considered domestic violence. Taking sexual advantage of a significant other or spouse against their wishes is still considered domestic violence or rape.

There are occasions when a spouse may make false accusations of domestic violence in an effort to sway the courts to make child custody decisions in their favor. This is of course illegal, but can be complicated to prove or disprove. It is times like this where having an experienced team on your side can help.

If there are children involved in a domestic violence dispute, things can be especially difficult for the accused when it comes to establishing child custody in the event of a divorce. This is why it is vitally important to fight accusations or charges as strongly as possible. This may mean hiring a strong criminal defense team. If you have been charged with domestic violence, you owe it to yourself and your future to strengthen your defense before you enter the courts. It can make a world of difference in protecting your rights and your future.

Source: FindLaw, “Domestic Violence,” Accessed June 5, 2017

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