Strategies for Avoiding and Dealing with Domestic Violence
When you live in apprehension of domestic violence, there are tactics that you can employ to minimize the risk of injury. The best solution may be to remove yourself from the environment where violence has or is likely to occur, but this is often not realistic. Domestic violence can be totally unexpected and can follow you wherever you go. This article provides concrete actions you can take to protect yourself and those you love.
Steps You Can Take Before Domestic Violence Occurs
You can be prepared for the likelihood of domestic violence by taking the following actions:
- Make an extra set of keys (house and car) and hide them in an easily accessible, but unknown location. This will allow you to leave the premises quickly if you fear or are exposed to violence.
- Pack a suitcase with the clothes you will need for at least a week. Store the suitcase with a friend or family member.
- Put together an emergency package containing money, medications, credit cards and other essential items. Store the package at the home of a friend or some other location outside of the home.
- Set up a plan for a safe house, a place you can stay on a short-term basis until your situation is resolved and you feel safe returning to your home. Do not include this information in e-mails, letters or any other communication that can be discovered by your spouse.
- Set up police and emergency phone numbers in the speed dial on your cell phone.
- Know your escape route. Preferably, plan a route that your spouse will not expect.
What to Do When Domestic Violence Occurs
If you are threatened with or subjected to violence, the following steps are critical:
- Call 911 as soon as you can. You should also teach your children how to dial 911.
- If you have put together an escape plan, execute it. If you cannot leave the house, go to a room in the house that has a door that locks, preferably one that has a window to the outside. If your attacker is outside the house, lock all the doors, if possible.
- Avoid the kitchen (too many sharp objects), the bathroom or any other small spaces where you have no escape. Don’t try to take up a weapon, as you may lose it to your attacker.
- When the police arrive, report all the details of the attack.
After a Domestic Attack
The most important step after a domestic attack is to report the matter to police. You can then seek a restraining or protective order preventing your attacker from coming near you. You should also obtain medical treatment as soon as possible.
Long Island Domestic Violence Lawyer
Orders of Protection | Restraining Orders | Domestic Violence
Serving clients in New York City, Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, Nassau County & Suffolk County.
Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders
Domestic violence is considered to be abusive, violent, and forceful or threatening actions or words used by one family member against another or between cohabiting partners.
Located in Melville, Long Island, the domestic violence and criminal defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Anthony J. Colleluori provide clients throughout Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island with aggressive, experienced representation and a quality defense against domestic violence charges, including obtaining or defending requests for restraining orders.
Often, when domestic violence occurs, you need more than just a family law attorney to handle your needs because the situation is complex, involving:
- Criminal Assault or Battery
- Civil Restraining Order
- Personal Injury or Damages
As experienced New York City and Long Island Criminal Defense and Domestic Violence Attorneys, Anthony J. Colleluori and his associates fight to protect your interests, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout New York.
