NYC Domestic Violence Lawyers
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Domestic Violence Lawyers: How We Can Help You Escape Abuse
Are you or someone you love trapped in the nightmare of domestic violence? You’re not alone. Millions of people from all walks of life suffer physical, emotional, and sexual abuse at the hands of their partners every year. But there IS hope. With the help of our skilled domestic violence lawyers, you CAN break free and rebuild your life.At Spodek Law Group, we’ve been fighting for victims of domestic abuse for decades. We understand the fear, shame, and helplessness you feel. The legal system can seem cold and intimidating, especially when your abuser is threatening retaliation if you speak up. But know this – you have rights, and we will stand by your side every step of the way to protect them.
Understanding Domestic Violence
Domestic violence isn’t just physical assault. It can take many insidious forms:
- Verbal abuse and threats
- Controlling finances and access to resources
- Isolating you from friends and family
- Stalking and harassment
- Sexual coercion and marital rape
- Using children as pawns
If your partner is doing ANY of these things, you are a victim of domestic violence under California law. Don’t downplay the severity of the situation. Abuse tends to escalate over time. What starts as “just” yelling can turn into beatings, broken bones, even death. An average of 3 women are murdered by their partners EVERY DAY in the US.You cannot change or “fix” an abuser. Couples counseling is NOT recommended in domestic violence situations, as it can give the abuser more ammunition to manipulate you. The only solution is to GET OUT and STAY OUT. We can help you do that safely and legally.
How Our Domestic Violence Attorneys Can Help
Leaving an abusive relationship is a courageous but difficult step. You may face threats, stalking, financial hardship, a grueling custody battle. But with our experienced legal team in your corner, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Here’s what sets Spodek Law Group apart:
| Our Strengths | How They Benefit You |
|---|---|
| In-depth understanding of CA domestic violence laws | We know exactly how to build the strongest possible case and pursue every legal remedy |
| Decades of experience | We’ve helped thousands of clients in situations like yours get the justice and safety they deserve |
| Aggressive representation | We are relentless in court, fighting tooth and nail to get you the best possible outcome |
| Compassionate support | We treat you with the utmost dignity, respect, and sensitivity during this traumatic time |
When you hire us, we will:
- Ensure your immediate safety by securing emergency protective orders and connecting you with shelters and resources
- Gather extensive evidence of the abuse, including police reports, medical records, photos, witness statements
- File for a permanent restraining order barring your abuser from contacting you
- Initiate divorce and custody proceedings if applicable, pursuing a fair settlement that provides for you and your children
- Assist with pressing criminal charges if desired, advocating for maximum penalties
- Help you collect restitution for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other costs stemming from the abuse
- Connect you with counseling, job training, housing assistance and other services to get you back on your feet
With our help, you can go from victim to survivor to THRIVER. We‘ve seen even the most battered clients transform their lives and reclaim their power. You can too.
Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
One of the most important legal tools for protecting abuse victims is a restraining order. This is a court mandate that prohibits your abuser from coming near you, contacting you, or possessing firearms. Violating it can result in immediate arrest and criminal charges.We can help you obtain:
- Emergency Protective Orders – Short-term orders issued by police if you are in immediate danger. Valid for 7 days.
- Temporary Restraining Orders – Granted by a judge if you can demonstrate reasonable fear of imminent harm. Valid for 2-3 weeks until a hearing.
- Permanent Restraining Orders – Issued after a court hearing in which you prove abuse occurred. Usually valid for 3-5 years but can be renewed indefinitely.
Restraining orders can also establish temporary custody, visitation, and support orders to ensure your children’s safety and financial stability. If you share a home with your abuser, “kick-out” orders can force them to move out so you can stay put.Don’t be bullied into dropping an order. Many abusers sweet-talk their way back in, only to escalate the violence. Stay strong in your commitment to a abuse-free life. We will vigorously enforce the order and hold your abuser accountable for any violations.
Domestic Violence and Divorce
If you are married to your abuser, divorce is often the only path to lasting freedom and safety. California is a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning you don’t have to prove abuse or any other grounds beyond “irreconcilable differences.” However, establishing a history of domestic violence can be a critical factor in:
- Property division – Abuse victims may be entitled to a larger share of assets as compensation for their suffering and lost earning potential. We fight to ensure you get your fair share.
- Spousal support – Higher and longer-term alimony can be awarded if you are disabled, lost career opportunities, or are caring for traumatized children due to the abuse. We make sure your sacrifice is recognized.
- Child custody – Documented domestic violence creates a presumption against joint custody in California. We present evidence of abuse and your fitness as a parent to pursue FULL legal and physical custody.
- Visitation – Even if some parenting time is granted, we can require that it be supervised, prohibit overnight visits, and put other protections in place. Your children’s safety is our TOP priority.
Abusers often drag out divorce and custody proceedings as a way to maintain control. Our attorneys don‘t play those games. We cut through the noise and keep the process moving forward so you can get a fair settlement and move on with your life ASAP.
Domestic Violence and Criminal Charges
Domestic violence is a crime, not just a private matter. If your abuser is arrested, our criminal defense attorneys can represent you in the proceedings. We will:
- Advocate for no-contact orders and maximum penalties, including jail time if warranted
- Prepare you to testify and protect you from badgering on the stand
- Pursue restitution for your damages in addition to criminal penalties
- Defend you against retaliatory accusations of violence (a common abuser tactic)
In some cases, we may suggest a “suspended sentence” that allows your abuser to avoid jail by completing batterer intervention counseling and other requirements. This can provide a path to rehabilitation and healing for your family, IF your abuser is truly committed to change. However, we will never pressure you to agree to this if you don’t feel safe doing so. Your autonomy is our guiding star.