Every year, more than 1.3 million women experience domestic violence nationwide. In Illinois alone, there are more than 100,000 domestic violence incidents reported every year. Oftentimes, victims are trapped in a marriage with their abuser. If you are a victim of domestic violence seeking a divorce, the following tips may serve to enhance your safety:
- Be cautious of your internet use — Abusers often monitor the internet use of their victims. They may even use sophisticated keystroke tracking software. When searching for information on sensitive topics (such as domestic violence assistance or divorce), do not use a computer that the abuser can access. Use a computer at work, a local library, or a friend’s house.
- Secure your finances — Many abusers use finances as a way to maintain control. Victims of domestic violence should find a way to put aside extra money so they can be financially independent after a split. If all the bank accounts are shared, set up a separate account. Register the account to a PO Box instead of a home address.
- Prepare a safety plan — Victims of domestic violence should prepare a comprehensive safety plan when they plan to leave the relationship. For example: Arrange for where you will live before you leave. Leave clothing, medicine, cash and important documents (birth certificate, passport) at a trusted friend or family member’s home and give a picture of the abuser to the security personnel at your place of employment.
- Obtain an order of protection — An order of protection is an official order from a judge that prohibits abusers from engaging in certain activities. For example, it can order an abuser to stay 500 feet away from the victim or the family home.
If you reside in Cook, Lake County, or in the North Shore, are a victim of domestic violence, and are seeking a divorce, an experienced North Shore divorce lawyer can help! Call our office today to schedule a meeting.
Born in Havana, Cuba, Paul Chatzky is fluent in Spanish and English, enabling him to effectively represent a wider range of individuals and families. He is AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, and is listed among Illinois Super Lawyers, which is a reflection of his high ethical standards and exceptional legal knowledge. As a…
Prior to joining the firm as a paralegal, Debbie was employed by major banking institutions as a loan processor and as an executive secretary. Debbie was also employed as an administrative assistant for the Board of Jewish Education. Having majored in Sociology, Debbie graduated from the University of Florida in 1980. Debbie completed her studies…
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