When Domestic Violence is an Issue in Your Divorce

Domestic violence can take a variety of forms. It may involve physical, psychological, or sexual abuse, and it often begins slowly, with subtle signs or controlling behavior or aggression on the part of your spouse. In most cases, it generally escalates over time. If domestic abuse has become an issue in your marriage, it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself. 

The damage domestic violence causes to a relationship and one’s sense of self leads many abused partners to eventually file for divorce. The following highlights some warning signs you need to be aware of and how domestic abuse impacts divorce proceedings. 

Our Glenview Divorce Lawyers Protect You During Divorce Proceedings

Domestic violence is an alarmingly common problem in the Chicago area and throughout the state. According to the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICDAV), more than 40,000 cases are reported each year and more than 8,000 children witness acts of domestic abuse in their homes. In general, people who engage in these acts are seeking a feeling of power and control. Common types of behaviors they are likely to exhibit include: 

• Yelling, screaming, and making threats;
• Isolating the victim from their friends and family members;
• Monitoring their activities;
• Prohibiting them from having access to cars, credit cards, or money in financial accounts;
• Prohibiting them from leaving the home;
• Keeping weapons in the home and using them to intimidate the victim;
• Barraging them with constant put-downs and criticisms;
• Engaging in sexual harassment or rape;
• Threatening to do harm to their friends, family, or pets;
• Hitting, punching, pushing, and other violent behaviors. 

How Domestic Violence Impacts Your Rights in Divorce

Under the Illinois Statutes, domestic violence is one of the fault grounds under which you can file for divorce. While you are not required to disclose this information, doing so could end up helping to protect you during divorce proceedings: 

• Can result in a restraining order being issued against your spouse;
• May give you rights to the family home and spousal support payments during the divorce process;
• May entitle you to a greater portion of marital property and alimony in any resulting divorce settlement;
• Can limit your spouse’s rights to your children, protecting their safety, while still requiring that child support payments be made. 

Our Chicago Domestic Violence Attorney is Here to Help

The Women’s Divorce and Family Law Group is recognized as one of the 10 Best Family Law Firms by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys. For victims of domestic violence, we act as a strong, trusted ally on your side. Contact our Chicago divorce attorneys to request a consultation today.