Domestic violence is a pattern of abuse by one person of another person with whom the abuser lives. Physical harm often, but not always, occurs. Sometimes, it is other behaviors, such as making physical threats, harassment, or stalking. It often involves married couples, but it also occurs in other types of relationships. The harm leaves the victim with bodily trauma and emotional distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder or depression. Violence in the home is never warranted. A domestic violence lawyer can help the injured party prepare to leave and seek protection from further harm. But since the lives of the abused and his or her loved ones may be at stake, it is important that the injured party understand exactly how the lawyer will help. Ask these four important questions, and get the answers you need. What's the Scope of Representation Provided? There are many things that must be done to ensure the injured party and his or her loved ones are protected from the abuser. A domestic violence lawyer can represent the victim in requesting a restraining order and in the court proceedings that follow. They can also assist the victim in obtaining a divorce, use of the family home, a partition of property, and custody of any children, if the parties were married. An attorney may also help to ensure that the abuser is prosecuted in a criminal suit and in securing housing, income, and food assistance. But not all attorneys do everything. The victim should clearly understand what the attorneys will help with and for what situations additional assistance may be needed. How Much Will This Cost? Hiring an attorney is expensive. There are costs associated with filing documents in court and with obtaining evidence to use in representing the victim. Some attorneys charge by the hour. Others charge a flat fee. Still others provide pro bono services, meaning they provide services for free or at a reduced cost. The victim should clearly understand billing methods and what services are covered by the billed amount. Are These Cases in Your Primary Area of Practice? Each victim's case is unique. There is an extensive body of law surrounding cases involving abuse. Not only are there special laws applicable only to domestic violence cases, but there are often attendant matters, such as divorce, custody, and property disputes. A lawyer that usually handles automobile accidents will not usually have the knowledge necessary to adequately protect the victim, even if the lawyer is extremely experienced. Ideally, the legal practitioner selected should specialize in handling abuse cases. If the injured party is unable to locate a lawyer who specializes in domestic violence cases, hire an attorney whose practice is devoted to family law. What About Communication? Confidentiality and openness are critical in an abuse case. You should feel comfortable telling your lawyer all details that might be relevant, and your lawyer should be trustworthy to keep sensitive information confidential. Your domestic violence lawyer should be able to address any concerns you may have with communication, work with you to ensure you are safe, and advise you on how frequently he will call with case updates. Asking these important questions will help you get the assistance you need from a domestic violence lawyer. When looking for a domestic violence lawyer, Hillsboro, Oregon families go to http://www.corbridgelaw.com/domestic-violence/.
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