No two abusive relationships are alike. Even so, certain patterns do emerge in many of them, like abrupt, ugly shifts in your partner’s mood due to the slightest provocation. Maintaining rigid control over you is an abuser’s typical strategy. The smallest thing, like...
The People’s Lawyer
Family Protection Orders
2 types of domestic abuse that can happen in a marriage
Not everyone finds themselves as happy with their spouse after they move in with each other. Your spouse's personality may suddenly change. You may find them more physically aggressive or controlling now that you're around them more often. If you feel like your...
How does West Virginia criminalize domestic violence?
The common understanding of domestic violence, which has been articulated by the National Coalition on Domestic Violence, is the intentional intimidation, sexual assault, physical assault, battery, or any abusive behavior against an intimate or familial partner. This...
What is addressed in a family protective order?
Family protective orders can provide important protections anyone impacted by family violence. For those seeking one, they should be familiar with what can be addressed in a family protective order. What can be addressed in a family protective order? Provisions that a...
Getting protection from domestic abuse
Domestic abuse, whether from a spouse, intimate partner, family friend or relative, is painful and scarring. Often, victims feel ashamed and even partially responsible for the abuse, and so it goes on, sometimes unreported for years. In fact, statistics show that in...
What is a family protective order?
Family protective orders can serve an important purpose during a difficult time. A Protective order is intended to prevent domestic abuse and are put in place to protect family members at risk of abuse. What activity can be addressed in a protective order? Family...
Family protective orders can keep you safe from abuse
Being caught in an abusive relationship can be a scary time. If the abuse is just too much or if you feel your safety is at risk, it may be time to file for a family protective order. The following is some information that may help those in Charles Town seeking family...
Steps to take after you escape domestic violence
Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of their age or socioeconomic status. For many people living in volatile situations, actually escaping the violence is just the first step. Staying safe in the immediate future also requires some extra work. Here are...
West Virginia takes action to demystify protective orders
When you're living under a constant threat of violence and a cloud of uncertainty about your future, the process of obtaining a protective order against your abuser be intimidating. The West Virginia Supreme Court is taking steps to change that situation. The court...