Many individuals who have no experience with domestic violence assume that it is a tragic exception to the norm of family dynamics. There is such a vast amount of misinformation and false assumptions regarding domestic violence that it can be difficult to understand what is true and what is fiction. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a community effort to raise awareness for the prevalence of domestic violence in the United States, show solidarity with victims of abuse in the past, and help promote resources that can aid individuals who are currently living with domestic violence.
Domestic violence is a persistent problem, but the nature of the abuse means that the damage it causes is both deep and private. Because this abuse mostly occurs in the privacy of the home and is often surrounded by manipulation, it is difficult to recognize from the outside. This is just one reason that Domestic Violence Awareness Month is so valuable. Raising awareness and spreading the word can help those in domestic violence recognize their situation, and it can prepare those outside of domestic violence to assist them and provide support through the process.
For those with questions and concerns during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a skilled New Hampshire domestic violence attorney from Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC, may be able to answer your questions. Schedule a consultation with a Meredith County attorney today by calling (603) 707-4800 for details.
Domestic Violence Facts
Domestic violence is not a simple or straightforward issue. While it is incredibly prevalent in America today, it takes many forms and looks different in each relationship. As such, misconceptions and false information regarding domestic violence have arisen amid the confusion. A key aspect of Domestic Violence Awareness Month is to spread reliable information to combat the misunderstandings, which can help expose domestic violence for what it is and equip both victims and their communities to act against it.
Domestic Violence Can Impact Anyone
One of the most common misconceptions about domestic violence is that it only affects a certain demographic of people. Many people assume that domestic violence mostly affects women in heterosexual relationships and that most other demographics are relatively free from abuse. However, this is not the case. Domestic violence can impact people of all races, genders, social classes, sexual orientations, and financial situations. This phenomenon is not limited by demographics.
Domestic Violence Impacts Tens of Thousands in America
Additionally, many assume that domestic violence only impacts a small percentage of the American population. Because domestic abuse happens privately and is often covered up or ignored, this can seem true. However, according to HAVEN, one in four women experiences domestic violence and abuse, and so will one in ten men. That is 25% of all women in America, and 10% of all men, and these numbers have been even higher in New Hampshire. Domestic violence impacts over 10,000 individuals in New Hampshire every year.
Domestic Violence is Not Just Physical Abuse
Another misconception about domestic violence that may arise during Domestic Violence Awareness Month is that abuse is purely physical, and that other forms of abusive behaviors are not considered domestic violence. While the name domestic violence may suggest physical harm, and physical harm still constitutes abuse, the actual definition of the term is much broader than that. Emotional abuse, mental abuse, financial abuse, and sexual abuse are all considered a part of domestic violence.
For more details on what constitutes domestic violence or abuse in New Hampshire, speak with a Belknap County domestic violence attorney from Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC.
Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence
While domestic violence is still a pervasive and destructive problem in the United States, organizations and resources are constantly growing to fight it. Domestic Violence Awareness Month was created to facilitate the spread and development of these resources to help protect victims of abuse and prevent abuse in the future. Knowing is half the battle, and the increased awareness can help identify abusers and help victims get the help they need to get back on their feet. New Hampshire domestic violence laws can be complex, but a skilled attorney may be able to help.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
One of the most valuable resources available to victims of domestic abuse is the National Domestic Violence Hotline. This organization was built to support and advocate for victims of domestic abuse, providing resources and a confidential hotline for victims to reach out and get help. Having a confidential advocate to listen and provide solid counsel and advice can be incredible for victims of ongoing abuse, and may be the step they need to find support to get out of the unsafe situation. However, while the advocates at the National Domestic Violence Hotline are incredibly helpful, they are not a substitute for emergency help. If you are experiencing an emergency situation or are in danger, calling 911 can provide a quick response and protection for those in a dangerous situation.
Domestic Violence Lawyers
When victims of domestic abuse begin to find their way out and remove themselves from abusive environments and situations, it is common for legal issues and challenges to arise. Domestic violence can cause several complex and frustrating legal conundrums, particularly if the abusive partner was a spouse. Understanding how to navigate separation, the viability of an abuse case, and working through the legal challenges of child custody and finding protection from the abuser can be incredibly difficult. A Laconia criminal law attorney may be able to help handle the legal aspect of domestic violence, helping advocate for their legal rights in court and answering legal concerns and questions.
Contact a New Hampshire Domestic Violence Attorney
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to support and come around victims of abuse, spread the word about the prevalence of abuse to those who are unaware, and to help build systems that can help those still in abusive relationships to get out. Participating and spreading the word can help make it more difficult for abusers to get away with their criminal activities, and can create space for more victims to come forward and get out of dangerous and abusive relationships. For those who are victims of domestic violence in New Hampshire, a skilled criminal law attorney from Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC can help. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your legal options and learn more about the legal implications of domestic violence. Call the office today at (603) 707-4800 for more details.
