Leaving a marriage plagued by domestic violence isn’t easy. Abusive spouses often seek to isolate and alienate their victims. They may threaten their spouses with escalating violence or may exert financial control that makes leaving seem impossible. People preparing to leave an abusive spouse generally need to take steps in advance to better ensure their safety.
How can those preparing to leave a volatile marriage protect themselves?
1. Collect thorough records
Documentation of the actual violence and its aftermath is critical for the protection of victims. Audio and video recordings of actual incidents, photographs of injuries, pictures of damaged property, screenshots of written threats and medical records can all help validate claims that a person endured physical abuse.
2. Request a protective order
The Texas courts can issue an injunction prohibiting contact between two parties. When there is evidence supporting the claim of previous violence, stalking or harassment, a judge may agree to issue a protective order. While a protective order doesn’t prevent abuse and communication, it creates consequences if the abuse continues.
3. Obtain an alternate address
Those leaving abusive spouses frequently choose not to disclose their current living arrangements. They may actually be eligible for a post office box provided by the state as the victim of domestic violence. People with injunctions or other compelling evidence of prior abuse can obtain an alternate address so that they do not need to disclose their current residence on divorce or custody paperwork.
Anyone trying to remove themselves from a volatile marriage likely needs support. Working with a family law attorney familiar with domestic violence divorces can help abused spouses make the best use of the resources in place for their protection.