Domestic abuse is still more widespread than many people care to believe in the 21st century and that’s why it’s imperative to understand exactly what it is and what can be done about it. As defined by the CDC, domestic abuse is also referred to as “intimate partner violence”.
Domestic abuse or violence can occur between heterosexual as well as same-sex couples. 1 in 4 women is reported to have experienced some form of domestic violence with ‘only’ 1 in 9 men reporting being victimized. In other words, women are more than twice as likely to be the victims of domestic abuse, and it is to them that we speak today. Here are three things every woman should know.
Although domestic violence is a crime in all states, each state has similar but different wording within the law. In Illinois, for example, the laws are set forth in the Illinois Domestic Violence Act that clearly defines exactly what constitutes domestic violence, DV, and what the consequences for being found guilty could be.
Also, you should know that if you have been a victim of DV, you have the right to be compensated for any injuries, physical or emotional, you have received. This would be where you would consult with an Illinois lawyer for abuse to seek the compensation you so rightfully deserve.
Also, as stated in the law, DV relates to any intimate relationship, so it is not only violence perpetrated by a husband. Any person a woman is romantically involved with can be the perpetrator, and they don’t even need to be sexually involved either!
Often, women suffer in silence. Sometimes it is fear of being victimized even more severely. Men know that it is a criminal act to abuse or violate their partner, yet they are not always in control of their actions. You should know that help is out there and if you are uncertain where to find it, one thing you can do is go to the emergency room at a local hospital.
They will help you find resources to ensure your safety and at the very least call law enforcement for you if you fear for your safety. There is a National Domestic Violence Hotline you can also call, and all calls are confidential. They will tell you where Domestic Abuse Shelters are in your area and can help put you in touch with other resources as well.
From filing a restraining order to seeking shelter in a Domestic Violence Shelter for women, there is always something you can do to put an end to it. There is no need to continue suffering abuse and if you think it will ‘get better,’ 99.9% of the time it will NOT end without intervention.
Being the victim of DV is no longer the societal stigma it once was and few people ‘blame’ the woman anymore. You are urged to be strong and proactive. Take steps to protect yourself from further abuse because no one deserves to be the recipient of violence. If nothing else, contact that domestic abuse lawyer mentioned above. They can point you in the right direction to get the help you need.
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