The cases of domestic abuse have been increasing rapidly. It affects both men and women, and the children who witness such incidents can even develop personality disorders growing up. A domestic violence charge can result in severe legal consequences, and it is suggested that you seek legal help from a criminal defence lawyer Vancouver immediately.
Commonly asked questions about domestic violence
- Is the victim ever at fault for the abuse?
No. A victim of domestic violence is never at fault, and the only person who can stop the abuse is the abuser themself. Abusers tend to be manipulative as well. The abuser tells their victims that they are at fault when in reality, the victim cannot do anything to stop the abuse. An abuser’s behavior is not anyone’s responsibility.
- Are drugs and alcohol a reasonable excuse?
No. While the consumption of drugs and alcohol can impair a person’s judgment and increase the severity of the violence, it still is not a viable excuse for injuring someone. The assumption that drugs and alcohol are to blame arises from the fact that consumers of these substances are more likely to inflict abuse. However, people simply cannot shift their responsibility to alcohol and drugs.
- How can a person understand if they are in an abusive situation?
Physical and verbal violence are often easy to understand since they are more direct. However, abuse comes in other forms as well, such as emotional, economic, spiritual, and psychological. Victims of financial abuse experience difficulty having control over money.
- Is it possible for an abuser to change?
Only a minor percentage of abusers are capable of change, and that too with lengthy reformation procedures. They may work with professionals in treatment groups to understand why they do what they do and if there is a way they can change these habits. However, it is improbable for a victim to change their abuser.
- What are the reasons for victims of domestic violence not leaving the abuser?
There are many good reasons why domestic violence victims do not easily leave or report the abuser. They are as follows.
- They are scared for their child’s safety.
- They have emotional feelings for their abuser and hope the abuse will end soon.
- They have a physical disability preventing them from moving.
- They believe abuse is normal.
- They are afraid of what may come next after they leave.
- They are financially dependent on their abuser.
- When does domestic violence start?
Domestic violence can start at any point during the relationship and does not have a specific timeframe. You can be happily married to the person and suddenly start experiencing abuse. The victims do not have control over it.
The law is stringent regarding domestic violence laws, and you can be imprisoned for up to five years. If you are facing false charges, contact a lawyer in Vancouver.
