6 Steps to Escaping a Violent Relationship in Florida

No relationship is easy. Every couple goes through struggles, and can be overwhelmed by passion. Everyone who has been in a relationship has said and done things that they wish they could take back.

There is a difference, however, between the normal ups and downs of a relationship and a relationship stained by violence. If you find yourself in a violent relationship, and are looking for ways to leave, the following steps can help you.

Tips That Can Help You Identify and Leave a Violent Relationship

Learn the signs of an abusive relationship. Even if your partner has not put their hands on you, that doesn’t mean they’re not abusive. There are more forms of violence than merely physical. If you feel like you have been emotionally, mentally, or physically harmed by your partner, don’t ignore those feelings, and don’t be afraid to leave – it may save your life.

Obviously, this is easier said than done, and it can be a heartbreaking experience to leave someone who you have loved (and may still love). However, with the support of family, friends, and professional resources, you will be able to create a safe, loving life for yourself, your children, and your loved ones.

Recognize that you are not alone. Many victims of domestic violence are afraid to talk to family members or friends about their situation. They feel ashamed of their partner’s behavior – and often their perceived role in it – and they believe that they are struggling alone.

Not only are you not alone, it is likely that you have people close to you who have endured similar struggles. One in three women, and one in four men, have endured some sort of physical violence from an intimate partner. One in four women, and one in seven men, have endured severe physical violence from an intimate partner.

Everyone’s situation is unique and different, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t be able to understand and empathize. Do not be afraid to reach out to your loved ones about your fears and situation. You might just get advice and help from someone who has been through a similar situation.

Find resources. You don’t have to rely on friends and family members alone to get out of a violent relationship. There are programs throughout the state of Florida that have resources to help people out of violent relationships and assist them in establishing an independent life away from their partner.

All you have to do to find state and local programs is do a simple Google search. If you’re not comfortable looking for these programs yourself, recruit the help of friends and family who are supporting your decision.

Talk to a financial adviser. Leaving a relationship is never easy – especially if you are married, live together, or share financial responsibilities. Do not let a joint bank account or the fact that you don’t have a job stop you from leaving a violent relationship.

If you feel safe separating a joint account or cancelling a joint credit card, do so. It’s also smart to talk to a financial adviser about additional ways that you can become financially independent and things that you can do without ruffling your partner’s feathers.

Something else important to know? Getting a restraining order can freeze a joint account or prevent an ex from taking assets in spite. Speaking of which…

File a restraining order. A restraining order is a legal document that prevents a romantic partner, ex, family member, and so on from making contact with you or being in your presence. Restraining orders may also have other clauses that are more specific to your situation. For example, a restraining order may prohibit a partner from being around your children, or may force them to leave the home that you share together.

Restraining orders can be requested at your county court. All that you need to do is express to a judge that you believe you are in immediate danger of harm. When you first request a restraining order, you will get a temporary restraining order, but after a hearing, the restraining order can be made permanent.

Talk to a family lawyer. When you go to court to fight for a permanent restraining order, you will need a strong case for why your ex is putting you in danger. This is where a family lawyer comes in.

Family lawyers who handle domestic violence cases can help guide you through the legal formalities of leaving a dangerous or violent relationship. This means not only assisting you in building your case for obtaining a restraining order, but also – if you’re married – getting a divorce.

Worried about how you’re going to pay for a lawyer? Our high-quality attorneys work at a discounted rate because they believe that everyone should have access to top-flight legal counsel when dealing with family law matters.

Start your journey to safety by reaching out to a Florida family lawyer. You can set up a free initial consultation to help you get a better understanding of the next moves you need to make, and what you need to leave a violent relationship.