In California, domestic violence is defined as disturbing the peace of another. The abuse or the threat of abuse is directed against someone with whom the abuser has or had an intimate relationship: spouse, former spouse, registered partner, former registered partner, other parent of the abuser’s children, lived together, used to live together, dating, currently or formerly engaged to be married, related by blood, marriage or adoption. The law is expanded to include that the individual seeing the abuse is a potentially protected party in addition to the victim of the abuse.

Often, a victim of domestic violence feel helpless about the situation in which the abuse is occurring and feel he or she cannot change anything about their situation or help him or herself or feel stuck in an impossible situation. A victim may refuse to believe that she or he is being abused. If you believe that you or a loved one is suffering from domestic violence, it is essential that help is sought as soon as possible.

Forms of abuse range include physical, verbal, emotional psychological and/or causing another person to see the abuse:

  • Causing physical harm to the body of another by hitting, kicking, shoving, pushing by any method
  • Sexual assault
  • Verbally threatening physical violence orally, in writing by text, email or any other written form
  • Harassing
  • Stalking
  • Destroying personal property

If you feel that you are being abused, it may help to talk to a domestic violence counselor before seeking legal help. Here are some resources that might be able to help you.

You should not have to live in fear in your home or your community. You do not have to suffer and attempt to help yourself alone. Our compassionate Carlsbad domestic-violence attorneys are here to help.