Relationship Deal Breaker? Emotional and Physical Abuse

As family lawyers in Johnston, Harnett, and Wake County, North Carolina, we, unfortunately, encounter abusive relationships far too often. Regardless if you’re a male or female and whether it involves emotional abuse or physical violence, this behavior should never be allowed, and you should seek help immediately.

We understand this is a difficult time, and getting out of an abusive relationship can turn your life upside down. But you need to do what’s best for you and especially any children involved. At the Breeden Law Office, we have helped many individuals in situations a lot like yours.

If you need legal help getting out of an abusive relationship, call us at (919) 661-4970 today. We’re happy to review your situation and guide your next steps.

Abuse Can Sometimes Be Difficult To Identify

Everyone has a different picture in their mind when they consider abuse. Many times, people do not think all undesirable contact is abuse. But, this is a mistake.

Physical abuse is any unwanted contact meant to hurt or intimidate. Physical abuse does not even have to leave marks or scars. But cases can escalate, and the fear may completely take over your life.

Emotional abuse is also frightening and incredibly traumatizing when the other person seeks to hurt you. Emotional abuse can be harder to spot than physical violence, but it can be humiliating, influence your behavior, or simply cause you pain and sadness. Examples of emotional abuse include:

• Rejection – When someone rejects another’s ideas or values. Instead of merely disagreeing, an abusive individual may reject your thoughts specifically to cause you harm.
• Verbal Abuse
• Manipulation – Often called gaslighting, this is when someone makes you doubt yourself or even your sanity. This is done by manipulating the truth to confuse you and cause pain.

What To Do if You Are Emotionally or Physically Abused

Being the subject of abuse can cause suffering in every aspect of your life. You may be afraid to trigger your abusive spouse. You may be embarrassed to leave the house or see friends or family. However, you must act without delay.

An abusive situation can quickly become much worse. It’s doubtful for an abuser to change their ways suddenly. You must act to protect yourself and your other loved ones.

Physical abuse can quickly become tragic. Many victims of abuse are shocked when it escalates. A spouse may be abusive for many years and then suddenly inflict terrible or even deadly injuries. Be sure to call the police if you may be in this position. After this, work to remove yourself from the abusive environment. This can be difficult, especially if there are children involved. Speak with a knowledgeable family lawyer for help.

Many non-profit organizations in North Carolina can offer you help if you are abused. This includes crisis hotlines, support groups, and even places to stay. Examples in our area include:

• Interact in Wake County – Interact offers many services such as a shelter and counseling. They are located in Raleigh.
• Harbor of Johnston County – Harbor has classes as well as a crisis hotline. Harbor is located in Smithfield.
• Safe of Harnett County – Safe of Harnett County has many services such as a hotline and emergency shelter. They are located in Lillington.

The Breeden Law Office Can Help You

Abuse is a deal-breaker in a relationship; do not delay in seeking help. Our office has decades of experience helping North Carolina families in need. We understand how an abusive partner can impact every aspect of your life, and most importantly, how you can use the legal system to protect yourself and your family.

Contact the Breeden Law Office today at (919) 661-4970 or contact us online for a consultation.