Family Lawyer Austin, TX
No one expects their loving relationship to turn into one shaken by domestic violence and abuse. Sadly, however, many people will experience domestic violence or other domestic abuse in their lifetime. There are many resources available for victims of domestic violence, and if you or someone you know is a victim or is at risk of becoming a victim, consider these resources:
- Local law enforcement: If you fear for your or your children’s physical safety and you feel that you can do so safely, call 9-1-1 and report your situation to the police. Although domestic violence can be complicated, if you fear for your immediate safety, or are being threatened, law enforcement can help diffuse a difficult situation.
- Trusted friends and family: Domestic violence is nothing to be embarrassed about. If you are concerned about your safety, reach out to your trusted friends and family for support. They may be able to provide you with a safe place to stay and help you get the professional help you need to protect yourself.
- Domestic violence hotlines: If you need additional support or advice about how to protect yourself or what to do if you feel like it is not safe for you to call the police or seek other intervention, consider calling or engaging in an online chat with a domestic violence hotline such as www.thehotline.org.
- Local shelters: Many local areas have domestic abuse shelters. Domestic abuse hotlines may be able to direct you to a shelter or you can search the internet for options near you. Local shelters can provide a safe place for you and your children to live and help meet your basic needs while you put a plan in place to end the abuse.
After you are in a safe place, consider calling an Austin, TX family lawyer who can help you address your legal needs. Although hiring a family lawyer may be the farthest thing from your mind as you attempt to leave a situation of domestic abuse or violence, the law can be a very powerful tool.
A critical issue to consider is an emergency protective order or a more long-term restraining or protective order that will prevent your abuser from getting close to you if you are concerned about future instances of violence. A qualified family lawyer will know exactly what you need to do to file for and obtain a protective order that can act as a barrier to allow you to go about your day-to-day life with more confidence and less fear. A family lawyer can also help you with any divorce proceedings that you may need to begin or finalize against your abuser.
Remember, if you or a someone you know is a victim of domestic violence or abuse: get safe, then get help. Consider calling a qualified and dedicated family lawyer Austin, TX relies on from The Law Office of Ryan S. Dougay who can help you start the legal process necessary to get back on your feet.