Domestic Violence In Virginia: How To Get Help

Domestic violence is a serious problem in Virginia. It involves physical, emotional, and other types of abuse committed on the part of one spouse or domestic partner against the other. Unfortunately, it tends to be more likely to happen over the winter months. Our Virginia family lawyer explains common types of abuse and how to get the help you need.

Domestic Violence In Virginia Poses A Threat During The Winter Months

Abusive behavior between spouses is a pervasive problem. Unfortunately, the pressure surrounding the holiday season, heavier than usual drinking to celebrate the new year, football games, mounting bills, and frigid weather can all combine to make domestic violence in Virginia more likely to happen during the winter months.

While the above factors increase the risks, abusers are ultimately motivated by a desire to control and manipulate the victim. The Virginia Department of Health warns that common forms of abuse include:

• Physical abuse, such as punching, hitting, slapping, or choking the victim;
• Emotional abuse, including insults, threats, and other efforts to erode self-esteem and provoke fear;
• Sexual abuse, including coercion, assault, and exploitation;
• Financial abuse, such as limiting access to money and preventing victims from working outside the home.

Never downplay any abusive or controlling behavior. Unfortunately, domestic violence can increase dramatically in a short amount of time and could put the life of the victim at risk. If you or someone you love faces this type of situation, know that help is available.

How Virginia Law Protects Victims of Domestic Violence

For domestic violence victims in Virginia, it is important to let someone they trust know what is going on and have a safety plan in place to escape the home if needed. Inform the police and document any incidents of abuse. Under the Virginia Code, domestic violence is a serious crime. The law offers several options in terms of protection for victims:

• Orders of protection prohibiting the abuser from contacting the victim and from appearing at their home, workplace, or in other areas;
• Temporary support orders, protecting the rights of victims in regards to homes or other property and providing alimony and child support;
• Criminal penalties ranging from fines and mandatory counseling to a potentially lengthy jail sentence, depending on the severity of the abuse.

There are domestic violence hotlines to call, local support groups, and housing or other types of assistance in Virginia. All of it is designed to help in making the difficult transition from victim to domestic violence survivor.

Request A Confidential Consultation Today With Our Virginia Family Attorney

Domestic violence tends to increase during the winter months and can prove potentially life-threatening. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, do not wait until it is too late to get help. Contact Schwartz Kalina, PLLC today. We provide the caring, comprehensive legal service you need during this difficult time. To request a confidential consultation with our Virginia family law attorney, call or contact us online today.

Sources:

vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/65/2020/10/Domestic-Violence-ENG.pdf

law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title9.1/chapter13/section9.1-1300/