Domestic violence is an incredibly serious problem that affects many people in the world. In Connecticut, it is illegal for an individual to harm, stalk, or threaten anyone that is a member of your family, someone you live with, or someone you have dated. The state has many laws that work to help victims of domestic violence and punish abusers. These laws provide victims with protection in order to keep their abuser away from them. If you are a victim of any form of domestic abuse, it is important to contact an attorney to help fight for yourself.
What is Domestic Violence?
Unfortunately, domestic violence can reach the homes and lives of anyone. An abuse victim can be any gender, age, ethnicity, economic/social status, or sexual orientation. Domestic violence can expose itself in many ways that all individuals should be aware of and look out for. This may include:
- Controlling behavior
- Terroristic threats
- Harassment
- Physical, psychological, emotional, and sexual abuse
- Stalking
- Homicide
Methods of Protection
The state of Connecticut works hard to protect those who are affected by domestic violence. State laws offer several ways to give a victim the security they may need from an abuser. Examples of protection offered by Connecticut include:
- Civil Restraining Order: This court order protects victims from further abuse by requiring that the abuser leave their home and do not contact them. They may be filed for up to one year with the possibility of an extension.
- Criminal Protective Order: This court order offers protection that is similar to a civil restraining order, but it can only be filed following the arrest or arraignment of the abuser. It usually stays in effect until the criminal case is over.
- Early Lease Termination: This offers victims the right to end a current lease early without penalties if the individual must leave their homes due to immediate danger. Certain requirements must be satisfied in order to prove they are a victim, in addition to providing their landlord with a 30-day notice.
- Leave from Employment: Employers must give abuse victims up to 12 days off in a year in order to seek medical care or attend court proceedings as a result of violence.
- Address Confidentiality: Victims of violence can keep their address private through the Address Confidentiality Program. The program provides individuals with a different mailing address so that their residence may be kept confidential.
False Accusations
Domestic violence abusers often face serious consequences. This is why it is important to not falsely accuse people of abuse. Sadly, some people take advantage of strict laws and falsely accuse another person of abuse to have power over another individual. Domestic abuse accusations can drastically affect one’s future. If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, it is important to seek an experienced attorney to clear your name.
Contact Our Firm
If you have been a victim of domestic violence, or have been falsely accused of domestic violence, contact The Law Offices of Marc N. Needelman today.
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. Contact the law firm to set up a free initial consultation for matters, related to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.
