What Legal Protections Are Available for Families Facing Domestic Violence?

What Legal Protections Are Available for Families Facing Domestic Violence?

Experiencing domestic violence creates a frightening and overwhelming situation. When your safety and your family’s well-being are at risk, knowing where to turn for help is the first step toward protection. In Indiana, the legal system provides several protections for individuals experiencing domestic abuse. Understanding these options can empower you to take decisive action.

At Worthley Law, our dedicated family law attorneys are here to support you through these difficult circumstances. Here, we will explain what constitutes domestic violence under Indiana law, outline the legal protections available to you, and show how an experienced attorney can provide the guidance you need.

Available legal protections in Indiana for domestic violence can include:

• Orders for Protection: A civil court order to prevent further contact or abuse.
• Divorce Proceedings: Legal action to end a marriage, which can include provisions for your safety.
• Child Custody and Support Orders: Legal arrangements to protect children and provide for their financial needs.

What Is Domestic Violence in Indiana?

Under Indiana law, “domestic or family violence” is defined as specific acts committed by a family or household member. These acts include:

• Attempting to cause, threatening to cause, or causing physical harm.
• Making you fear physical harm.
• Stalking you.
• Forcing you to engage in sexual activity.
• Committing a sex offense against you.
• Abusing or killing an animal to threaten, intimidate, or terrorize you.

You can also seek a protection order against someone who is not a family member for acts of stalking, harassment, or a sex offense.

How an Attorney Can Help You

At Worthley Law, we understand that trying to meet the requirements of the legal system on your own can be intimidating, especially when dealing with the emotional trauma of domestic violence. That’s why our experienced family law attorneys are dedicated to providing those suffering from domestic violence with legal support and guidance at every step.

1. Filing for a Protection Order

We can help you file for an Order for Protection, a critical tool that can help ensure your immediate safety. This civil order can prohibit the abuser from contacting you, coming to your home or workplace, and committing further acts of violence. An attorney can file your petition correctly and represent you in court to argue for a final order, which typically lasts for two years.

2. Handling Divorce and Separation

If you are currently married to your abuser, an attorney can help you through the divorce process. We can help you address the complex issues that come with divorce, like property division, while prioritizing your safety and planning for the future.

3. Securing Child Custody and Support

When children are involved, their safety is the highest priority. When appropriate, we can advocate for custody arrangements that will best protect them from harm. Additionally, we can help establish child support orders to ensure your children’s financial needs are met while keeping them safe.

Take Steps Toward a Safer Future

Taking legal action in response to domestic violence is a courageous step. With the right support, you can obtain the protections you and your family need to move forward. Our attorneys at Worthley Law are here to help, ready with the experience and compassion to guide you through this process.

If you are facing domestic violence, do not wait to seek legal help. Contact Worthley Law today to schedule a confidential consultation. Your safety and your future matter to us.