If you have been the victim of domestic violence, you may be wondering what will happen if you press charges against your abuser. You may also be wondering if you will be able to get a restraining order or an order of protection. There are many answers to these questions, but the outcome will depend on many factors, including the severity of the abuse, the jurisdiction in which you live, and whether or not your abuser has prior history of violence. Here are some questions you may want to ask an attorney if you are considering pressing charges against your abuser.
What happens when I press charges of domestic violence?
When you press charges for domestic violence, the first thing that will happen is that the police will be called to the scene. They will ask you and your partner about what happened and take photographs of any injuries. They will also collect any physical evidence, such as broken furniture or clothing with blood on it. After the police have gathered all the evidence, they will decide whether or not to make an arrest. If they arrest your partner, they will be taken to jail and have you appear in court.
As a Victim, What Do I Do Legally?
As a victim of domestic violence, you have several legal options available. You can file for a restraining order, which will forbid your abuser from having any contact with you. You can also file for child custody if you have children with your abuser. If you decide to press charges, you must testify in court and provide evidence to the prosecutor.