More to Know About: Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of learned behavior in which one person uses physical, sexual,
and/or emotional abuse to control another person. However, domestic violence involves
individuals with special relationships. Before sharing domestic violence, Michigan resources, we’ll first cover the definition of domestic violence under Michigan law. Domestic violence is an assault or
assault and battery by a:

• spouse
• former spouse
• person residing or having resided in the same household as the victim
• person having a child in common with the victim
• person with whom he/she has or has had a dating relationship

Are you a victim of domestic violence? Unhappy with your current attorney? Request a free consultation now.

How to Tell If You’re a Victim of Domestic Violence

There are many signs or “red flags” for domestic violence besides physical abuse. These
common indicators include:

• Extreme jealousy
• Possessiveness
• Animal cruelty
• Verbal abuse
• Unpredictability
• Stalking
• Extremely controlling behavior such as withholding money, car keys, preventing a victim from attending school/work, etc.
• Control over how the victim dresses or how they act
• Forced sexual intercourse or disregard of partner’s unwillingness to have sexual intercourse

Domestic Violence Statistics

• According to the Michigan State Police, there were 91,004 reported victims and 105 reported murders related to domestic violence in 2017.
• Nationally, females ages 18-24 and 25-34 generally experienced the highest rates of intimate partner violence.
• Nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men report having experienced severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime.
• On a typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide.
• The presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%.

Domestic Violence, Michigan Resources

If you’re facing domestic violence, aren’t sure if it meets the legal definition, or need help getting a restraining order as soon as possible, speak with an attorney immediately.

Are you a victim of domestic violence? Unhappy with your current attorney? Request a free consultation now.