Christmas can be a difficult enough time for families, but it is especially difficult if your family is affected by domestic violence. Stress levels peak at Christmas time. The pressure is on to be the perfect family and have the best front out. So, homes can become a virtual pressure cooker waiting to blow.
As a victim of domestic violence, you can get caught in a cycle of not knowing what to do, or where to turn. The longer the situation continues the more trapped you feel.
There is always a way out…….
Some key things to remember:
- You don’t have to put up with violence in the home – no one does
- You should not tolerate any kind of violence or abuse to children, whether in the home or otherwise.
- You should not tolerate children witnessing any kind of violence or abuse
- Abuse can be physical, verbal or mental
- As a man, you can be a victim too
- As a parent of an adult child, you can be a victim too
What should you do?
- Speak out and speak up – talk to your family or friends, seek help from your GP, or from the Gardaí if help is needed urgently.
- Get out if you have to – contact your local Refuge or helpline such as Women’s Aid -1800 341 900
- Contact a solicitor who specialises in Family Law and who can give you the all-round family advice that you need, and who can help you if you need to take proper steps to secure protection. Find someone who listens.
What Legal help is available?
The Court can make a variety of orders to prevent this type of abuse, including:
- Protection Orders
- Safety Orders
- Interim Barring Orders
- Barring Orders
Don’t be afraid to speak up about it. Don’t be ashamed to name it.
If you need advice or support on any of the issues raised above,please call Alan Finnerty on 01 637 6200. Or you can email him at alan.finnerty@orpenfranks.ie
*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.
