We've seen a big influx of domestic violence/assault cases at our office since the pandemic began. With all of the economic and situational stress that stems from the pandemic, it's no surprise that things can get tense around a household and quickly boil over.
Before you know it, the cops are on your doorstep and you're facing domestic violence charges or an injunction. We know how quickly these situations can escalate and how devastating these charges can be, so we've put together a few tips to help you avoid a domestic dispute.
Come up with a Code Word
A code word could help if either individual in a relationship perceives that a heated argument or another issue could lead to violence. The code word could be said whenever someone feels they are about to act violently toward the other person or if they sense the other person is about to be violent toward them.
In other words, both parties should feel comfortable saying the word when they feel they are about to commit or become a victim of some type of violence. Having a code word in place can help both people understand where an argument is headed so that they can pause to take a breather and cool off.
Identify Triggers
A lot of domestic violence occurs because someone is triggered to act aggressively and violently. A trigger could be anything from a specific date to a holiday, an item, a taste or smell, or even another person. Usually, triggers are the result of someone drawing an association between something and a traumatic event they experienced.
Investing time in understanding what someone's triggers are can help couples plan around them while the afflicted individual seeks therapy to deal with them. Sometimes triggers can be predicted, such as upcoming dates or holidays. Others might be more difficult to work around, but the key here is to find out what sets someone off so that a response can be avoided or better managed in the future.
Talk to a Friend
If you feel as if you're inclined to engage in domestic violence, you should consider opening up to your friends about it. Meet up somewhere where you and your friends will be sober – that is, free from drugs and alcohol - and can freely discuss what you’re going through. You can even call or text them, but the point is that sometimes the perspectives of your close friends on certain issues can carry more weight than those of a spouse, romantic partner, or other family members - even if they think or see things the same.
Who knows - you might find out that a friend is going through similar emotions. Knowing that someone else is struggling as you are can help you feel less alone and more capable to healthily deal with your own issues.
During your initial consultation, we can discuss exactly what happened in your case and make a plan about how to move forward. As your advocate, we will request evidence from law enforcement about your case. Many times, simply examining this evidence can illuminate mistakes made during your arrest and prosecution. These could be the difference between a brush with the law and years spent in jail.
What Happens After A Domestic Violence Arrest?
The Law Office of Carrie L. Rentz, P.A. can help if you have been charged with domestic violence and/or are subject to an injunction. We understand that there are situations in life where it isn't possible to avoid an altercation, and you may have even been defending yourself at the time the incident occurred.
Whatever you're up against, Attorney Carrie Rentz can support you by building a customized legal defense that can mitigate your responsibility for what happened. For more information about what she can do for you, reach out to The Law Office of Carrie L. Rentz, P.A. today.
Connect with us online or call 407-904-7376 to reach out to Attorney Carrie Rentz for help.