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Domestic Violence Defined in the Orlando, Florida Area

There was an excellent article in the Family Law Commentator, Issue 1, 2023, by Leo Vera, Esquire, and Kristina Lawrence, Esquire. In the article, they state that, according to the United States Department of Justice, Domestic Violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions, or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.

In the article, the authors also state that, according to the Florida Department of Children and Families, Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior, violence, or threats of violence, that one person uses to establish power and control over a current or former intimate partner. It is not a disagreement, a marital spat, or an anger management problem. Domestic violence is abusive, disrespectful, and dangerous and may include abuse that is physical, sexual, emotional, spiritual or economic. The use of threats, intimidation, isolation, pet abuse, and using children as pawns are also examples of domestic violence. 

The article further quotes that, “in Florida, the legal definition of domestic violence includes, ‘any assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another family or household member.’” 

Survivors of domestic violence often suffer in silence because of threats of fear, or shame. According to this article, it is well known that the most lethal time for survivors is when they decide to escape the relationship. That is why it is important for victims to receive help. 

Victims of domestic violence may contact Harbor House in Orange County at (407) 886-2856, or Safe House in Seminole County at (407) 330-3933. They can call these agencies for help and more information. These agencies will help victims file an injunction for protection against domestic violence too. Further, they can assist the victims with information and services at this difficult time when they may have no money, or practically no finances because the abusers control the family finances. Domestic violence victims are sometimes forced to choose between being homeless or their safety. That is why it is important for them to have a safety plan before they leave. These agencies can assist victims with that. 

If you have more questions regarding a Marital and Family Law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation. You may also visit my website at: https://www.annmariegildenlaw.com 

This article is for informational purposes only and does not form an attorney client privilege.