Domestic violence can be confusing, upsetting, and traumatic. If you are in a domestic violence situation in Westborough, you may not know where to turn. A compassionate domestic violence attorney can play a vital role in supporting you through the legal process, helping to protect your future, and advocating for your rights.

Our experience in navigating the complexities of domestic violence cases means that we know how to fight for justice and foster a brighter future for you and your family. Seeking the assistance of knowledgeable Westborough domestic violence lawyers can be a critical step toward reclaiming your life and achieving a sense of support and empowerment.

Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence or domestic abuse, is a pattern of behavior used by one partner in an intimate relationship to gain or maintain power and control over the other partner. It can occur in various types of relationships, including marriages, dating relationships, and between cohabitants. You may not even know for sure if you are in an abusive relationship. Domestic violence can take many forms:

Physical Abuse

  • Physical abuse involves the use of physical force against a partner. This can include hitting, slapping, pushing, choking, or any other form of physical assault that causes injury or pain.

Emotional and Psychological Abuse

  • Emotional and psychological abuse includes behaviors that manipulate, control, or undermine the victim’s emotional well-being. This can involve verbal insults, constant criticism, threats, intimidation, and isolating the victim from friends and family.

Sexual Abuse

  • Sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual activity or coercion. This can include rape, forced sexual acts, or other forms of sexual pressure or violence.

Financial Abuse

  • Financial abuse entails controlling or restricting access to financial resources. This can involve preventing the victim from working, taking control of finances, or withholding money.

Stalking

  • Stalking is another type of domestic violence involving repeated harassment or threats that cause emotional distress that can involve unwanted communication through email or text, or appearing uninvited at someone’s home or workplace.

Isolation

  • Isolation is a form of abuse where one partner controls the other’s actions, communications, or whereabouts to cut them off from their support systems.

Digital Abuse

  • Digital abuse involves using technology to harass, control, or monitor the victim. This can include excessive texting, tracking through devices, or using social media to threaten or intimidate.

Elder Abuse

  • Elder abuse involves neglect or mistreatment of individuals aged 65 or older and can include physical, emotional, or financial harm. Many people assume that the term “domestic violence” just refers to those in a romantic relationship but domestic actually refers to those within a home. While domestic violence is commonly between spouses or partners, it is essential to understand that people of all ages can be subject to an abusive individual in the home.

What To Do If You Are In Immediate Danger of Domestic Violence

If you are in immediate danger, you should seek emergency assistance as appropriate. Unfortunately, our firm is not able to offer pro bono or emergency assistance at this time, although we have collected a list of domestic violence resources that may be able to offer assistance depending on your immediate needs.
If you are concerned for your safety, you may want to consider some of the following steps to protect yourself. Not all of these options will be best for everyone so you must consider your own specific needs before deciding upon any of the following steps:

Find a Safe Place

  • If possible, leave the situation and go to a safe location. This might be a friend’s house, a family member’s place, or a public area for the moment. You may also want to look into local domestic violence shelters (there are a number of these linked in our previously mentioned domestic violence resources page).

Call Emergency Services

  • Dial 911 or your local emergency number to get immediate help from law enforcement if you fear for your safety. Our firm is unable to provide emergency services.

Contact a Domestic Violence Hotline

  • Reach out to a domestic violence hotline for support, guidance, and resources. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233.

Seek Medical Attention

  • If you’re injured, get medical care as soon as possible. Hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle these situations discreetly.

Create a Safety Plan

  • Plan how you will leave if you have to, including where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, and what you’ll take with you. Make safe living arrangements for any pets if necessary.

Inform Trusted People You Know

  • Let friends, family, or neighbors know about your situation so they can help keep you safe.

Domestic Violence Resources in Westborough

Each Massachusetts county has specific domestic violence resources. In Worcester County, these are the organizations you can contact if you are in a domestic violence situation. They can provide all sorts of assistance.

How Can Westborough Domestic Violence Lawyers Help Me?

You may feel that there is no escape from domestic violence. After you have found a compassionate advocate, you will feel empowered. Here is what experienced Westborough domestic violence lawyers can provide.

Legal Protection and Restraining Orders

  • A Westborough domestic violence lawyer can help you obtain a restraining order or protective order, which legally prohibits the abuser from contacting or approaching you. This order can provide immediate safety and set boundaries for the abuser.

Custody and Divorce Matters

  • If you are seeking a divorce or dealing with child custody issues, a lawyer can advocate for your rights and interests. They can help ensure that custody arrangements prioritize the safety and well-being of you and your children.

Gathering and Presenting Evidence

  • A lawyer can help you collect and present evidence of abuse, such as medical records, photographs of injuries, police reports, and witness testimonies. This evidence is crucial for supporting your case and obtaining favorable legal outcomes.

Securing Financial Support

  • In cases where financial abuse or economic dependency is an issue, a lawyer can help you seek financial support or fair division of assets during divorce proceedings. They can also assist in obtaining spousal or child support if needed.

Addressing Criminal Charges

  • If the abuser is facing criminal charges, a lawyer can assist in navigating the criminal justice system, ensuring that your safety is prioritized, and that the abuser is held accountable for their actions.

Speak to Our Westborough Domestic Violence Lawyers Today

If you have been suffering with domestic violence, you may feel nervous about contacting an attorney. All domestic violence case evaluations are confidential. Additionally, at O’Connor Family Law, you can request an incognito evaluation with one of our attorneys by asking to speak to Liz. Contact us to learn how we may be able to help you navigate your case.

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