What Is Domestic Violence?

 Posted on February 07, 2024 in Domestic Abuse

If you have to ask whether what you have experienced in your marriage counts as domestic violence, the answer is probably yes. While domestic violence certainly includes violent actions like hitting or choking you, there are more subtle forms of domestic violence. Simple things like pushing you out of the way, restraining your movement (except in self-defense), and ripping your belongings out of your hands can also be considered forms of domestic violence. Note that domestic violence is not the only form of domestic abuse. Verbal abuse, financial abuse, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse are all very valid forms of spousal abuse. If you are married to an abusive spouse, there is help available. An Arlington Heights, IL, divorce and domestic violence lawyer can help you make a plan to get out of your marriage safely. 

Have I Experienced Domestic Violence?

If your spouse caused you any physical harm, including pain or discomfort without your consent, there is a strong chance that they have carried out domestic violence against you. You may have experienced domestic violence if your spouse:

• Hit you - Hitting, kicking, or slapping you is a clear-cut form of domestic violence. 
• Pushed or shoved you - Pushing or throwing you around is abuse, especially if you were thrown into something like a wall or table. Pulling, yanking, or dragging you is also domestic violence. 
• Choked you - If your spouse has strangled, choked, or arm-barred your neck, there is an elevated risk that their violence could become fatal. It is extremely important to leave now. 
• Pulled a weapon on you - Even if they did not actually use the weapon against you, brandishing a knife, gun, bat, stun gun, or other instrument used as a weapon is a type of assault. 
• Ripped belongings away from you - Tearing a piece of jewelry off you - even if they gave it to you - is a form of violence. So is ripping items like your cell phone or purse out of your hands, especially if they do so in an attempt to prevent you from calling for help or leaving the home. Knocking food or drinks out of your hands is another common form of domestic violence. 
• Restrained you - Holding you down, pinning you against a wall, or grabbing and holding onto you while you are trying to walk away or carry out a task can be considered domestic violence. 

You may be eligible for a protection order that can force your spouse to leave the home and stay away from you if they have committed any of these actions or other forms of violence against you. 

Contact a Cook County, IL, Divorce and Domestic Violence Lawyer

Law Offices of Donald J. Cosley supports survivors of domestic violence in any way we can. Don Cosley, a dedicated Arlington Heights, IL, divorce and domestic violence lawyer, can help you seek a protection order and get divorced. Contact us at 847-253-3100 for a free and confidential consultation.