Warning Signs of Domestic Violence

domesticviolence One in every four women is beaten or raped by a partner during adulthood and three women are killed each day by a current or former intimate partner according to National Network to End Domestic Violence. In an effort to call attention to this grave issue, and reach out to victims and advocates, October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Chicago attorney Martin Dolan of Dolan Legal is a defense attorney with over 19 years experience. Dolan is currently fighting a district court decision that dismissed a claim that Chicago police violated the right to equal protection by failing to enforce the protective order of Mercedes McCauley against her ex-boyfriend, who later shot and killed her. Dolan is filing an appeal to the decision, fighting to have victims of domestic abuse recognized as a class of people who deserve higher protection under the law.

“Domestic violence is serious issue that deserves heightened attention, which can be seen in the case of Mercedes McCauley” Dolan explains. “I am dedicated to the issue and hope that these tips and my work with this case will help to prevent and protect victims of domestic violence.”

Dolan offers these signs of domestic violence and safety tips for those in an abusive relationship:

WARNING SIGNS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE – Your partner:

Has unpredictable temper
Makes threats and/or hurts you
Sees you as a sex object
Threatens to commit suicide if you leave
Acts overly possessive and/or controlling
Keeps you away from family or friends

RED FLAGS – Tactics used by an abuser include:

Dominance
Humiliation
Isolation
Threats
Intimidation
Denial/blame

LOOK FOR THE TYPICAL “CYCLE OF VIOLENCE” (Resource–http://helpguide.org/

Abuse
Guilt
“Normal” behavior
Fantasy/planning
Set-up

SAFETY TIPS

Know your abuser’s red flags
Identify safe areas in your home
Make a list of emergency contacts and be prepared to contact them when warning signs and red flags appear
Always be prepared to leave