Domestic Violence Victim’s Advocates Provide Warning Signs for Maryland DV Victims

Domestic violence remains a serious and deadly problem in Maryland. According to a recent news report from WMAR News, who spoke with domestic violence victims’ advocates from House of Ruth, Maryland and local advocates in Baltimore County, recent domestic violence deaths are raising alarm that warning signs often go unrecognized long before a tragedy occurs. The report highlights that controlling behaviors, isolation, and silent escalation of abuse are common and dangerous features that victims may ignore or dismiss until it is too late. To help victims of domestic violence in Maryland keep themselves and their loved ones safer, we discuss warning signs of domestic violence and how Maryland laws can help protect you here.

Warning Signs of Domestic Violence in Maryland

Advocates list several key warning signs victims should take seriously. “We talk about controlling the finances,” says Lisa Nitsch with the House of Ruth, Maryland. “We talk about humiliating you in front of your family or friends. Or starting to isolate you from the people that you care about. Or if you find yourself isolating from the people that you care about because of your situation. Those are all warning signs.” The report also notes other risk factors such as untreated mental health or substance abuse issues, unemployment, and especially the presence of a gun in the home. Nitsch adds: “When there is a gun in the home, the likelihood of someone being killed with that gun increases by five times… That’s 500 percent more likely. So, if you’re in a relationship that feels unsafe, one of the most important things you can do is get the guns out of the home.” Recognizing these behaviors and risk factors is an essential first step toward protecting yourself if you believe you are experiencing domestic violence in your marriage or relationship in Maryland.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself Now

If you believe you are or may become a victim of domestic violence in Maryland, it is important to not delay. Do not wait for things to escalate to get legal help. One important tool available to victims of domestic violence in Maryland is a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO). A DVPO is a court-issued order designed to protect you from and your abuser by legally limiting contact. Speaking with an experienced Maryland family law lawyer is the best place to start if you are facing domestic violence at home and you need help and protection under the law.

Getting Legal Help in Maryland with Your Domestic Violence Case – Do Not Delay

If you are in Maryland and you need legal help protecting yourself and your loved ones from a violent and dangerous domestic violence situation, do not delay in getting legal help now. The experienced Maryland family law lawyers at the law office of Vanessa R. Dozier, LLC help victims of domestic violence in Maryland get protection under the law. Contact the law office of Vanessa R. Dozier, LLC today and speak with an experienced lawyer about your rights, options, and next steps now.

Source:

wmar2news.com/news/region/baltimore-county/recent-domestic-violence-deaths-in-baltimore-county-alarm-advocates