How Can You Prove Domestic Violence?

If you were routinely a victim of physical domestic violence, then you have lots of evidence to back up your claims. Besides physical evidence, you probably have scars and bruises. You may even have medical records or calls to 911. But what if your abuse wasn’t physical? How can you prove abuse?

Psychological Abuse Statistics

Remember, domestic violence is not about violence. It’s about control. And psychological and emotional abuse occurs more frequently than you can imagine.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 48.4 percent of women and 48.8 percent of men have experienced at least one psychologically aggressive behavior by an intimate partner. At least 18.7 percent of women have experienced threats of physical harm by an intimate partner, and 4 in 10 men and women have experienced at least one form of coercive control by an intimate partner in their lifetime.

So how can you prove domestic abuse?

Proving Domestic Violence When It’s Nonphysical

Jenny and Brian have been married for 10 tumultuous years. If the couple wasn’t fighting, then they weren’t speaking to each other. Sometimes Brian would hit Jenny, but the majority of abuse was verbal. He would call her nasty names and belittle her every chance he got. She finally couldn’t take it anymore and left. She tried to press domestic violence charges but wasn’t sure if she had a case. How can she prove her claim?

Yes, even with physical evidence, it can be difficult to prove domestic violence. But there are ways you can prove your claim:

• Get Witnesses – In the case described above, Jenny and Brian have fought constantly. This may mean neighbors, friends, or family members have heard or seen some of the arguments. These observations can help Jenny’s case.
• Court Records – Did Jenny file a restraining order? Did Brian have domestic violence charges brought against him before? This can help in proving domestic violence in the relationship.
• Police Reports – It may also be possible that a helpful neighbor called the police to report the arguing. Any time the police have shown up at their door means a report has been filed. Jenny will want to use these reports to help prove her claim. The police can also be used as a witness and testify what the officer saw or heard.
• Victim Testimony – Jenny herself can testify on her behalf to explain the years of abuse she had suffered through.

How a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Help

Your best bet is to hire an experienced domestic violence attorney to help you with your legal matter. If you are a victim of domestic abuse and you need help with bringing your abuser to justice, we can help. Contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone today for a free consultation.

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