Domestic abuse doesn’t always look the same in every relationship. It can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial, or a combination of several forms. Some signs are easy to spot, while others are much more subtle. Merel Family Law has been helping victims of domestic violence since 2009. We know how frightening – and how complicated domestic violence is – and we do not want you to feel like you are alone. Our Troy, MI domestic violence attorney is here to talk, answer questions, and to provide you with legal guidance and support.
If you or someone you care about is in an unsafe situation, learning the signs of abuse can be a first step toward getting help.
Controlling Behavior
One of the earliest and most consistent signs of abuse is control. This can include monitoring where you go, who you see, or how you spend money. The abuser might demand access to your phone, track your movements, or isolate you from friends and family. Control often starts gradually but can quickly become extreme.
Verbal Or Emotional Abuse
Not all abuse leaves physical marks. Emotional and verbal abuse can be just as damaging. This includes constant criticism, humiliation, threats, gaslighting, or name-calling. Over time, this kind of abuse can wear down a person’s self-worth and make them feel powerless or trapped.
Physical Violence
Physical abuse can include hitting, slapping, pushing, grabbing, or restraining someone. In some cases, it might also involve destruction of property, especially when done to intimidate or scare. Even one incident of physical violence is a sign of danger and should be taken seriously.
Sexual Coercion Or Assault
Abuse can include forced sexual activity or situations where one partner uses pressure, threats, or manipulation to obtain sex. In healthy relationships, consent is clear, mutual, and never forced. Any unwanted sexual contact is a red flag.
Financial Control
In abusive relationships, one partner may take complete control of the finances, refuse to allow the other access to money, or prevent them from working. This can make it very difficult for the abused partner to leave, which is often part of the abuser’s intent.
Threats Against Children Or Pets
Abusers sometimes use threats against children, pets, or loved ones as a way to gain compliance. These threats may be direct or implied, and they can create fear that keeps the victim from reaching out for help.
Constant Blame And Excuses
Abusers often refuse to take responsibility for their actions. They may blame their partner for “causing” the abuse, claim it was stress-related, or say they were “just joking.” These tactics are used to deflect blame and keep the abused partner from recognizing the seriousness of the behavior.
Protecting yourself with a court order is often a necessary tool to get you on the road to safety. Orders of protection can create legal distance between you and the abuser and give you time and space to make further decisions.
We’re Here To Help When You’re Ready
If you have questions about who can file an order of protection, need help doing this, or have other family law needs, we are available to talk. Reach out to Merel Family Law whenever you are ready and we can discuss your options. We understand how difficult this is, and we are here to support you with legal guidance and a team that truly listens.
