Getting Out of An Abusive Marriage. You’re Not Alone

Today, there are many spouses (both female and male) who are victims in abusive relationships. For some people, it may be easier to recognize the signs of abuse. Others may find it more difficult or aren’t ready to acknowledge the situation. 

If you’re in an abusive marriage, it’s important that you get out. That may, however, seem harder than it sounds.

You probably already know you should contact an Orlando divorce lawyer. To help you leave an abusive marriage safely and quickly, here’s what you should do too:

Getting Out of An Abusive Marriage

If you’re ready to take steps to get out of an abusive marriage, then you’ve successfully completed step one: recognizing the signs. Without acknowledging that your marriage is abusive and you need to get out, you can’t move forward.

When you start the process of getting out of an abusive marriage, it can feel daunting and impossible. But if you know where to go and what steps to follow, you’ll be off to a great start.

1. Know You Are Not Alone

Unfortunately, many marriages are abusive and lead to divorces every year. While this is an unfortunate occurrence, it does mean that you aren’t alone. It’s possible to find lawyers like us with the proper experience to help you safely get out of your marriage. Additionally, there may be help groups around you that can provide encouragement and support.

2. File a Restraining Order

Filing a restraining order can prevent your ex from harming you during or after the divorce procedure. They can be written to meet your specific needs and can be obtained at your county court. Typically, restraining orders will start out as temporary then be made permanent after a court hearing.

3. Find A Family Lawyer

Finding a family lawyer with experience in domestic abuse cases can make the divorce process smoother. A good lawyer will know how to keep you and your children safe through the entire duration of the divorce. They can even help you obtain a permanent restraining order without putting you in danger.

Signs of Abusive Marriage Relationship

Here are some quick ways to tell that you’re in an abusive relationship if you’re unsure.

Your spouse…

• Regularly insults you or puts you down. In some cases, this may include name-calling.
• Tries to control how you spend your money, when you go to work or school, or when you can see other family members or friends.
• Threatens you in any way, whether it’s with violence or sexual assault.
• Physically harms you or forces you to have sex.

If any of the above is true, you’re likely in an abusive relationship and should take the next steps to get out.

Sometimes, before any of the above steps happen, you may notice some warning signs. Warning signs could show up as early as your first date together or as late as the day that your spouse hits you.

If you or someone you know might be in an abusive marriage, here are some warning signs to watch out for.

Pre-Abuse Warning Signs

• You feel unsafe or uncomfortable being alone with them.
• Either you or your spouse drinks a lot during the first year of marriage.
• You regularly argue over both little and big problems.
• They call you or others to make sure you’re where you said you would be. Additionally, if they visit you unexpectedly to make sure you’re there.

Signs of An Abusive Marriage

If you suspect you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, here are some physical signs to look out for:

• Bruises on their arms or wrists
• Black eyes
• Marks around the neck
• Sprained wrists
• Excess makeup to cover up marks
• Wearing more clothes than necessary (ie. scarves in summer or sunglasses inside)

Conclusion

Getting out of an abusive relationship is hard and takes a lot of courage. If you’re ready to get out and want to keep yourself safe, contact us today and let us help you start the process. With compassion and the right legal expertise, we’re happy to set up a consultation to help you understand the next steps to take.