Pennsylvania Family Law Blog

Although domestic violence prevention and awareness is important to be upheld at all times, the month of October offers a chance for survivors and supporters to join forces against acts of domestic violence. According to the Domestic Violence Resource Center, an estimated 1.3 million women are physically assaulted each year and about four women, and 1 man, are killed every day by their intimate partner.

Domestic violence, whether it is physical or emotional, is reflective of serious abuse that is illegal. Such matters surrounding domestic violence should never be taken lightly, especially when children are involved. Even if the children are not direct victims of domestic violence, living in a household of domestic violence can cause much emotional stress. And just because a child is not being victimized now doesn’t mean that he or she may not be later. It is a frightening thought, but the reality of such a risk is far too great to put to the test.

According to a recent article on dailywd.womansday.com, this October will serve as the 22nd official recognition of National Domestic Violence Month. Although some may speculate that the recent struggles of our economy have increased incidents of domestic abuse, victims of such mistreatment should never feel helpless. Help is always available and it is important first and foremost to remove yourself from any current abusive situation you may be in.

Unfortunately, issues of domestic violence may also involve other elements of family law that can leave a person feeling overwhelmed and even perplexed. If you have been a victim of domestic violence, you have legal rights and options that may help you receive a restraining order against your attacker and even full custody of your children. For more information about what can be done to help you with your domestic violence case, contact the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C. Our skilled Philadelphia domestic violence attorneys have been assisting victims of domestic violence for many years and have the legal knowledge and experience to protect your rights. Call 610-645-0100 for a free consultation today.

Source Article: http://dailywd.womansday.com/blog/2009/10/daily-buzz-october-is-national-domestic-violence-month.html

No matter how heated a quarrel can become involving a married couple, partners, or two people just allegedly dating, there is never any excuse for things to become physically violent. On September 6, 2009, outside linebacker for the San Diego Chargers, Shawn Merriman, was arrested and charged with battery and false imprisonment of reality TV celebrity Tila Tequila. Apparently, the well-known football player is being accused of choking, restraining, and throwing Ms. Tequila to the ground when she was trying to leave his house.

It is being argued in Merriman’s defense that Ms. Tequila had been drinking and, according to his attorney, Merriman “essentially was doing what was appropriate under the circumstances in trying to protect the safety of Miss Tequila. There were numerous eyewitnesses that will support his version of the events that transpired at his home.”

As to what the end result of this complex and serious domestic violence situation will be, we will have to see what happens as evidence and witness testimony unfolds. Although this incident took place in California, domestic violence in Pennsylvania is an unfortunate occurrence that greatly affects both men and women who are victims of verbal, emotional, and physical abuse. Situations where children are a part of such victimization are even more devastating and can have lasting consequences on a child’s life.

If you have been a victim of domestic violence in Pennsylvania, it is important that you seek help as soon as it is safe to do so. You may also want to examine whether or not filing a restraining order against your attacker is a good option for you and your particular situation. For more information as to what can be done to protect your legal rights, call the skilled Philadelphia domestic violence attorneys at the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C. today for a free consultation.

Source article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4450962