If you are struggling with abuse in your relationship in North Carolina, the most important thing is to make sure you’re safe. If you or your children are in danger, call 911 for assistance. You can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-787-3224 to get help.
At Routh Law, Kelly Routh and our legal team are here to assist you with legal measures like a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO). Please contact us to discuss your situation and explore your options for protecting yourself and your children.
Domestic violence is defined very broadly in North Carolina. It is any act or multiple acts committed during a personal relationship, or against the minor child(ren) of a person in that relationship. It includes:
There is an online portal to access forms and other pertinent information related to obtaining domestic violence protective orders (DVPOs) in North Carolina.
It’s best to work with an attorney to file a DVPO to help you provide evidence of actions or behaviors that would allow the court to enter a DVPO, such as physical violence, the threat of physical violence, harassment. Filing with an attorney helps speed up the process and allows you to obtain the DVPO more quickly.
At Routh Law, we can assist in filing out the paperwork necessary for a DVPO. Contact us today to learn more.
Beyond the broad statutes of domestic violence, there are a few specific subtypes of domestic violence and abuse in North Carolina
Physical abuse includes causing any kind of physical harm like kicking, punching, scratching, slapping, biting, and more. A DVPO can be obtained when physical abuse has transpired or when there has been a threat of imminent physical abuse.
Emotional abuse can include manipulation, insults, threats, social isolation, and cutting a person off from their family, friends, and other support structures.
Sexual abuse includes any situation where one person is forced or coerced into engaging in sexual acts against their will through guilt, threats, and even physical coercion.
Financial abuse may occur when one partner has sole financial authority over the other person and uses money as a form of control or manipulation.
If you and your children are being abused, Routh Law is here to help. Kelly Routh is an experienced family lawyer, and has helped clients just like you navigate domestic violence cases.
We can help you file for a DVPO, protect yourself and your children from your abuser, and explore other options available to you to protect yourself and your family. Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation.