IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS BEING ABUSED

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE BEING ABUSED

1. Call 911 and report the incident. Write down the police report/incident number and keep with your records.

2. If necessary, seek medical attention. Have injuries documented and photographed.

3. Go to a safe place such as a domestic violence shelter.

4. Seek the support of caring people. Tell someone you trust about the abuse. They may be your friend, a family member, a neighbor, a co-worker, or staff members of support agencies. Talk to them in a private, safe place. You do not need to face abuse alone.

5. Have a safety plan. If your partner is abusive, have a plan to protect yourself and your children in case you need to leave quickly. If you are abusive, be honest with yourself, think of the consequences, and get help.

6. File for a Protective Order that will tell your abuser to stay away.

When you decide to get help, find a support system that works for you. A trusted friend, family member, or professional can help you devise a safety plan and find a safe place for you to stay, if necessary.

If you are a victim of abuse, you are not alone. You have the right to be safe! You are not responsible for violent behavior! No one deserves to be beaten or threatened!

Helpful hints:

When you are asked to appear in court, be on time. Bring all your paperwork. Do not bring your children. Talk directly to the judge, not the respondent. Tell the truth. Be courteous, sincere, and speak clearly. Bring police reports, photos, and affidavits.

You MUST be able to provide a current address for service of the Protective Order on the abuser.

Keep your protective order with you at all times.

 

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS BEING ABUSED

We must refuse to accept the deadly myth that we must "mind our own business," and no longer turn our heads when domestic violence is happening in our home, our family, or our neighborhood. Domestic Violence must be treated for what is - a crime. How can you approach a friend in trouble?

If you think a person is being abused:

If an assault is occurring, call 911. Take the time to listen, and believe what your friend says. Don't downplay the danger. Don't judge or criticize your friend's choices. Give emotional support. Offer to help with child care or transportation. Express concern for your friend's safety. Let your friend know about agencies that can help.

Getting out of an abusive relationship can take time.

Stick by your friend and don't expect changes overnight.

If you think a person is being abusive:

Tell them you feel uncomfortable when they insult or putdown their spouse or partner.

Tell them that their behavior disturbs you.

Tell them you care about them and urge them to contact a batterer treatment agency. Don't agree with any statements that suggest their partner brought on the abuse. Remember, there's no excuse for domestic violence.