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Segalas Law Firm

The Segalas Law Firm - Matrimonial and Family Law Firm - Bergen, Essex, Morris and Passaic Counties, New Jersey

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  • About
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    • Divorce & Family Law
      • Custody & Child Support
      • Domestic Violence
    • Mediation & Arbitration
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What Are the Warning Signs of Domestic Violence?

domestic violence attorney

We’d all like to think that our partners only have our best interests at heart. But tragically, that’s not always the case. And while studies show that nearly half of all men and women in the U.S. have experienced some type of psychological aggression by an intimate partner during their lifetime, there’s still a huge stigma surrounding domestic violence and abuse victims.

It takes immense courage to be able to leave a domestic violence situation or to take legal action against your abuser by filing a restraining order in NJ. Because domestic violence and abuse escalate and intensify over time — and it’s very rare for an abuser to begin the relationship with abuse right off the bat — it’s essential that you learn to recognize the warning signs of a potentially violent relationship. While not every domestic violence situation is the same across the board, many of them share universal traits. Below, you’ll find some of the most common “red flags” that can appear in relationships that turn violent or abusive.

What Are the Common Warning Signs of Domestic Violence?

Controlling Behavior

Controlling behavior is one of the most prevalent indicators of abusive relationships, but this behavior is often easy for many people to explain away. Fits of obsessive jealousy might be justified as the way in which the person shows they care, for example, or requests to dress conservatively might be interpreted as merely part of the individual’s instinct to protect their partner. Unfortunately, these controlling behaviors can become more pronounced and more forceful as time goes on. If your partner is insistent that you check in with them numerous times while you’re out, they always want to know where you’re going, they don’t allow you to wear what you want, or they don’t give you access to your money, these are strong indicators that your relationship could be on a domestic violence trajectory.

Isolation From Others

Another aspect of controlling behavior that domestic violence attorneys often see is one partner isolating the other from everyone else. Abusive individuals will attempt to cut off their partners from their friends and family so that their partners will exclusively rely on them and so that their partner’s sense of reality becomes warped. Without any outside influences, it becomes easier for the abuser to behave in the way that serves their needs. If you’re not allowed to see certain people you care about, you have to ask permission to see your loved ones, or your partner purposely embarrasses you in front of others in an effort to keep you isolated, you need to take a closer look at your relationship before it becomes violent.

Physically Destructive Incidents

As any domestic violence attorney will tell you, abuse doesn’t usually start with your partner doing physical harm to you. But in many cases, they may find it difficult to hide the rage they feel inside. This could result in physically destructive incidents, such as throwing household items or punching walls. Just because your partner hasn’t laid a hand on you does not mean that they’re incapable of doing so — and if they’ve shown that they’re prone to violent incidents like these, most experts would say that it could be only a matter of time before they physically abuse you instead of inanimate objects in your home.

Blaming, Criticizing, or Punishing Behavior

Remember that domestic violence covers a wide range of behaviors. In addition to physical abuse, domestic violence cases can be characterized by verbal or emotional abuse. Blaming you for small mistakes, criticizing your appearance or your intelligence, accusing you of infidelity, or punishing you for personal choices (or perceived slights) are all indicators of an abusive relationship. While it’s true that not everyone who engages in verbal abuse will become physically violent, domestic violence attorneys know that this type of abuse can be just as (or even more) damaging to victims.

What Should I Do If I Am a Victim of Domestic Violence?

If you believe you’re a victim of an abusive relationship, start by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline and planning an emergency escape plan. Once you are in a safe place, you can contact a trusted domestic violence attorney to file a restraining order or to pursue other charges. For more, contact our firm today.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

A true professional
September 29, 2018
A true professional, caring and compassionate - Steven handled a complicated emotional post-divorce matter for me with all of the expertise and grit you would expect from a top Family Law Attorney, but Steven also has a deep care and concern for his clients best interest as a whole long after the matter is settled that I am proud to say for anyone considering him for your matter you should meet him and see for yourself. I'm sure you will feel as confident as I did that he is a Top Choice Attorney.
- Anthony
Great Attorney
June 21, 2018
Steven Segalas truly cares for his clients. He is knowledgeable, kind and a great negotiator! Served as my attorney for a difficult child support case and handled challenges with ease. He’s the one to have on your side. Would highly recommend him.
- Luis
Great Attorney
February 13, 2018
He knows his business as an attorney and keeps you updated. He is not only an advocate in court but outside of it. I cannot recommend him enough.
- Anonymous
Professional and Supportive
July 17, 2015
I absolutely do not know where I would be without him. I went through a 3 year divorce where my ex-husband changed lawyers numerous times. Steven was on top of every single aspect of my case and was there for me every single step of the way, he even spent Valentine’s Day in mediation with me. In addition to handling the divorce, Steven also represented me in my Domestic Violence Case against my ex-husband and secured a FRO (formal restraining order). The trial revealed very personal, embarrassing and painful information. Steven was nothing but professional and supportive. If you are looking for an attorney, you will be in excellent hands with him. Even when you are at your worst, he will hand you a tissue and make you smile!
- Bonnie
Outstanding Family Law Attorney
March 27, 2015
Steven M. Segalas is an outstanding Family Law attorney. I have worked with Steven as an adversary on many cases. Steven is an expert on Family Law. He is always up to date on statutes, Rules of Court and case law which bears on the cases we have handled together. I respect Steven’s strong advocacy for his clients. Steven knows when to fight and when to compromise. This is the true sign of a great Family Law attorney.
- Faith
A Great Attorney
March 16, 2015
A great attorney handled my divorce. My divorce and subsequent child custody matters were quite involved. Mr. Segalas was thoughtful and helpful throughout the process. He employed some out of the box thinking that allowed me to continue to have healthcare for myself and my children during a very trying time in my life. I always felt protected in court. Mr. Segalas was always ready to respond to whatever allegation was made in my direction from opposing counsel. I was very happy with his service.
- Anonymous
Fast-precise-no BS
March 10, 2015
Steve worked his magic to saved me from the X….Saved me thousands! Fast-precise-no BS. I would use Steve without second thoughts knowing you will be in the best of care & guidance!
- Mark
Great Attorney
February 27, 2014
My attorney makes ME a priority. He always explains the legal divorce process in terms that I can understand; and he has the ability to answer all of my divorce questions. The office is well-staffed for the follow up. My attorney has a team of lawyers and legal assistants trained to guide me through the divorce process and fight for my best interests. My attorney always presents a clear plan which includes all steps of divorce, information I need to gather, and a fee schedule. My attorney raise other issues I had not thought of yet that could have significant ramifications for the short-term and long-term success of my divorce. I go with my attorney who addresses my fears and concerns; exudes confidence and feels like a good fit for me ????
- Mark
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DISCLAIMER

The material presented on this website is intended for general information purposes only and is not offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice on any specific matter or circumstance. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. The information contained in this website is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship nor is it intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney. This website constitutes Attorney Advertising.

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