Different Forms of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a sobering problem in the United States. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence states that “every 9 seconds in the US, a woman is assaulted or beaten and that on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men.” There is a higher incidence of suicidal tendencies and significant illness and physical and emotional health for victims of domestic violence.

The Department of Justice defines domestic violence as, “a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.”

Physical abuse perpetuates any type of physical harm against another person. This also includes forcing substances on someone.
Sexual abuse is forcing or attempting to coerce any sexual contact without permission or consent from the other party.
Emotional abuse exists when someone weakens the self-worth or self-esteem of another individual.
Economic abuse is controlling the finances of an individual in order to control them.
Psychological abuse causes fear by threats, destruction of property, isolation and intimidation.

Victims of Domestic Violence

There is no predictor of who will be a victim to domestic violence. It can happen to anyone regardless of income, social status, gender, race, age or religion. It often occurs among those in intimate relationships, but has the very real possibility of affecting other relationships that are not defined by intimacy.

The Nahajski Firm is an experienced firm in criminal defense. If you have been charged with domestic violence, you need the best representation possible for your unique case. Contact the Nahajski Firm today.