It is an unfortunate fact that a significant portion of men, women, and children become victims of sexual assault every year in Texas. While state law certainly prohibits assaults that fall under the umbrella of domestic violence, victims may feel too scared or intimidated to come forward. At the same time, they may feel like an incident of abuse is simply part of being in a relationship and that their partner or family member is blameless. This is simply not true.
Texas law provides many means for the victims of domestic violence assault to protect themselves and their families. The team at the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski is dedicated to helping you get the support your need when you are the victim of domestic violence. Reach out to them today to learn more.
Who May be a Victim of Domestic Violence
When most people think about the concept of domestic violence, they imagine a husband using physical force against a wife. While this is certainly an example, the fact is that Texas law uses a broader definition of family violence to prohibit these sorts of activities.
According to Texas Family Code §71.005, an act of family violence is one that impacts family or household members. A household member may include:
- Married people
- Former spouses
- People who have ever lived together
- People with a child in common
- People who have ever been in a dating relationship
As a result, many people may fall under the umbrella of a household member for the purposes of a domestic violence case.
How Could the Victims of Domestic Violence Protect Themselves?
Police officers everywhere in Texas receive training on how to recognize signs of domestic violence and protect victims. Whether that person is a man, woman, or child, police officers should act immediately if they suspect that domestic violence has occurred.
The victims themselves can also act to obtain immediate help. The Family Violence Program under the Texas Department of Health and Human Services can guide people towards a safer present immediate future. They provide guidance for people who may need to seek out temporary shelter, offer a 24-hour hotline to answer questions about safety planning and support, and can even provide people with legal assistance.
This legal assistance can play a major role when a victim of family violence seeks out a protective order. These orders can prohibit all contact between a victim and their abuser. In addition, it is possible to obtain these orders even if police have no prior contact with an abuser or if an arrest never occurs. An attorney at the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski can also provide assistance for people looking to break free from an abusive relationship.
Speak with Our Team Today to Learn More About Domestic Violence and Options for Victims
Domestic or family violence is a sadly common event in Texas. Spouses, children, co-parents, and even dating partners may fall victim to physical, emotional, and financial abuse at the hands of others. When this happens, you have the right to seek out safety and justice.
The most direct option is to call the police or 911. They can immediately dispatch officers to diffuse an ongoing situation. At the same time, you may want to look for quieter options. The State provides help through shelters for those looking to escape an abusive situation and 24-hour support for information about protective orders and how to prepare for an eventual change. Contact the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski now to hear more about how they are ready to help the victims of domestic violence.