Divorcing an Abusive Spouse: What to Know
When women are polled on why they stay with abusive partners for so long, they generally answer that they were afraid to leave or even talk about leaving for fear that their partner would harm them or the children. Often, victims of domestic abuse feel like there is no way to safely break free of a partner who is willing to hurt them.
Abuse in marriage is listed as the seventh most common reason for divorce in America. So how do those suffering from abusive situations ultimately break free of the cycle of violence and fear?
Discreetly secure important documents
First, you’ll want to secure all of your important information before you make a move. This includes passports, social security cards, insurance documents, mortgage information, bank account information, and other financial documents. This will make it impossible for your spouse to hide these assets later down the line.
Silently secure financial independence
Once you have your documentation, you will want to ensure that you have your own accounts to live on. You will want to open new accounts that don’t have your spouse’s name on them. In most abuse situations, the abuser exerts a great deal of control over their victim. This means controlling the money and making all the financial decisions. Ultimately, the abuse is about control. You will need to establish finances outside of the marriage. Opening up your own accounts is the first step.
A safety plan
Before you initiate divorce proceedings, you will want to set yourself up somewhere outside of the marital home. This could mean staying with relatives, but if no relatives are available in your hometown, then a women’s shelter may provide a temporary alternative. The children will also need to be situated in a safe place. You can reach out to counselors, social workers, or others who can help you break free of the abusive relationship.
Finding a lawyer
A lawyer can help you if you are in an abusive relationship. We can help connect you to community resources. This can include getting temporary public assistance for those who cannot break free from their financial dependence on their spouse.
Once it is time to make your intentions known and file for divorce, you can choose to route all communications with your abusive ex through your attorney. You may be able to secure a temporary restraining order. If you get a TRO, the government can confiscate any firearms your spouse has. In addition, attempts to contact you will be considered acts of violence and aggression.
Talk to a Tampa, FL Domestic Violence Attorney Today
The Tampa family lawyers at Westchase Law, P.A. represent the interests of those who are looking to escape abusive marriages and partnerships. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and learn more about how we can help.
