8 Reasons to Consult a Lawyer When Leaving an Abusive Marriage

When it comes to leaving an abusive marriage, consulting a lawyer is an essential step that should not be overlooked. There are several reasons why this is the case, and in this blog post, we will explore just a few of them.

1. Legal Protection

One of the main reasons to consult a lawyer when leaving an abusive marriage is for legal protection. Domestic violence is a serious crime, and seeking legal counsel can help ensure that you and your children are safe and protected during this difficult time. A lawyer can help you obtain restraining orders, advise you on how to protect yourself and your children, and represent you in court if necessary.

2. Child Custody and Support

If you have children and are leaving an abusive marriage, it is important to consider the legal implications of your decision. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options when it comes to child custody and support, and ensure that your children’s best interests are protected. For example, did you know that you must wait 2 years from the date of the initial child custody order to request a modification? A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and advocate for your rights as a parent.

3. Property Division

If you are leaving an abusive marriage, it is likely that you will need to divide your shared property and assets. A lawyer can help you understand the laws governing property division in your state, and advocate for a fair and just settlement. This is especially important if your abuser has a history of financial abuse or if you have been financially dependent on your spouse.

4. Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a major contributor to domestic violence, and it ranks third when it comes to deadly diseases in the United States. If your abuser struggles with alcoholism, it is important to seek legal counsel to ensure that you and your children are protected. A lawyer can help you understand your options and advocate for your safety.

5. Support

Consulting a lawyer when leaving an abusive marriage can provide you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time. On a typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide, and seeking legal counsel can provide you with an additional source of support and advice as you navigate this challenging situation.

6. Domestic Violence Shelters

A lawyer can also help you understand your options for finding safe, temporary housing if you need to leave your home due to domestic violence. Many states have domestic violence shelters that offer safe, temporary housing for survivors of domestic violence. These shelters often provide additional services such as counseling, legal assistance, and support groups to help survivors rebuild their lives. A lawyer can help you understand your options for finding safe, temporary housing and assist you in accessing the resources and support you need to move forward.

7. Immigration Issues

If you are an immigrant and are leaving an abusive marriage, it is especially important to consult a lawyer. Your abuser may have used your immigration status to control or abuse you, and seeking legal counsel can help you understand your options for obtaining legal status or protection.

8. Employment Issues

If you are leaving an abusive marriage, you may face employment-related challenges such as loss of income, difficulty finding a job, or workplace discrimination. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options if you are facing employment-related issues and advocate for fair treatment in the workplace.

In conclusion, there are many important reasons to consult a lawyer when leaving an abusive marriage. Understanding the law and legal protection, child custody and support, property division, support, domestic violence shelters, immigration issues, prenuptial agreements, employment issues, and long-term planning are just a few of the key benefits that a lawyer can provide. If you are in an abusive relationship, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel – it could make all the difference in your journey to safety and healing.