President Obama issued a presidential proclamation declaring October 2011 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The proclamation was declared to recognize the significant achievements which have been made in America to reduce domestic violence. The awareness program is designed to educate people about the warning signs of domestic violence and also to become aware of the resources available to help protect victims of domestic violence.
The Domestic Violence Awareness Project defines domestic violence as a pattern of abusive behaviors, which include physical, sexual, and psychological attacks as well as economic coercion, used by one intimate partner against another to gain, maintain, or regain power and control in the relationship.
You will be alarmed to know the rising percent of domestic violence cases. In homes where there are children, abuse between parents affects them. Children are also at an increased risk of becoming victims of abuse themselves in homes where abuse occurs between partners. Children who are not a direct victim of abuse, but live in a violent home often show warning signs such as depression, stress, low self-esteem, aggression or passivity, excessive school absences, running away and impulse control. Therefore, educating yourself and becoming aware of signs of domestic violence and obtaining a protective order is extremely vital.
What to do in case of an emergency situation?
If you feel you or someone you know is becoming a victim of domestic violence, you should immediately contact 911. You should also get yourself away from the situation and protect yourself and your loved ones from the abuser by finding a shelter of safe place. A lot of these shelters and safe places are found throughout the Indianapolis County.
When you do manage to get away from the abuser, never make the mistake of going back. According to Johnson County Sherriff’s Office, it is statistically shown that the most dangerous time for domestic violence is within the first 60-90 days of separation from an abuser. To guard yourself from this, it is encouraged to seek an order of protecting by the Sheriff’s office.
What is a Protective Order?
Family members in the household who are affected by the domestic violence can apply for a protective order. These family members include those who have been married, dated, had sexual relations or share a child in common with a perpetrator of domestic violence. The individual applying for protective order can be related by blood, marriage, adoption or foster care. Other people, who do not necessarily have a direct relationship with the perpetrator, can also apply for an order of protection. This is true for child molestation victims or rape victims, as well as stalking victims.
Most orders last for a period of two years from the date the order was issued and are free. Under Indiana law, it is possible to obtain a basic protective order without an automatic hearing. This order will protect the seeker of the order at his or her home, workplace, school, day care, and no telephone or indirect contact, which does include online contact. However, the respondent has the right to request a hearing within thirty days. If this is not requested, the protective order can last for two years without further court notice.
Author Bio
Richard Jacobs is a chief editor since early 2007, and he currently works for MyDUIattorney. A website that helps you to find the right DUI Attorney, you can search for a Orlando DUI Lawyer online, anytime!
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These articles are for the benefit of our readers including those from other states besides Indiana, and might not pertain to, or reflect the laws of Indiana or the practice areas of The Garrison Law Firm.
