Domestic violence is an epidemic that strikes millions of individuals and families worldwide. The conversation around domestic violence usually comes in the form of physical and emotional abuse, but one of the more underreported types of domestic violence is economic abuse. Note that economic abuse is an important but often unseen tool for abusers to use. Survivors may feel at a loss when going through this type of abuse where access to financial resources is cut off, forcing them into situations where they feel stuck, unguarded and unable to get away from the abusive partner. In this article, we will explore the nuances of economic abuse, its manifestations, and the legal recourse available to victims. We’ll also discuss how a Domestic Violence Lawyer can preserve your rights and help you free yourself from financial control.
Economic abuse is when one partner in a relationship attempts to control the other’s access to financial independence, resources and decision-making. That abuse can range from withholding money, controlling bank accounts, and limiting credit to preventing a victim from working or going to school. For example, in financial abuse, the abuser uses money to control the victim, which can make it almost impossible for the victim to leave the relationship or protect themselves in other ways.
Economic abuse can look a lot of different ways, and here are some of the most common examples of it.
These behaviours are often found in conjunction with other forms of Domestic Violence, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse, but can be equally damaging and isolating.
Economic abuse is often multi-dimensional; its effects extend beyond mere financial hardship. It can also cause great emotional distress to its victims when the enforcer uses manipulative techniques to make them feel that they are not deserving, codependent, or unable to handle their money affairs. This repeated behaviour can result in an individual feeling inadequate, anxious and helpless, and creates a vicious cycle preventing the victim from escaping the abusive relationship. The mental impact of the above often goes unnoticed, yet is long-lasting.
The economic impact of economic abuse can be severe. Financially controlling victims may find they can no longer afford housing, food, medical aid, etc. When the victim cannot hold onto a job or has no access to their financial resources, it makes it all that much harder to leave the abusive relationship. Financial abuse can, in some cases, last for years and make it impossible for the victim to save, invest, own property and/or build wealth, which can leave someone financially vulnerable for the long term.
Victims of economic abuse in California, like other types of domestic violence, have protections under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA). Under the DVPA, victims may obtain a restraining order to stop abusive behaviour, including economic control. A restraining order can forbid the abuser from:
Further, a victim may apply for temporary support orders (including financial support, child support, property division etc) to help address the immediate (financial) challenges of a victim after separation.
If economic abuse takes place, the victim may be eligible for several types of legal relief:
For victims of economic abuse, acquiring a knowledgeable Legal Defense for Domestic Violence Accusations helps ensure all potential legal remedies are sought.
Victims seeking to know their legal rights about financial abuse also can benefit from speaking to a LA Domestic Violence Attorney who specializes in financial abuse. They can:
Although economic abuse is a grave matter, you should also be aware that the claims of domestic violence can be exaggerated or completely made up. If you are falsely accused or need a domestic violence lawyer to defend yourself against a partner or partner, a domestic violence lawyer will help you bring an effective Legal defence for Domestic Violence Accusations. They will make sure no rights are violated and you get to face a proper trial.
A strong legal defence against charges of economic abuse, that will save your reputation and your future, is beyond the scope of this article, but the bottom line is that if you have been falsely accused of economic abuse, you need to contact an experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles.
If you, or someone you know, is perhaps suffering from economic abuse, it is best to act quickly and get the legal assistance you deserve. Why Alimouri Law Domestic Violence Lawyers in Los Angeles? We have a team of knowledgeable domestic violence attorneys in Los Angeles who can safeguard victims' rights while also advising and guiding them through every stage of the legal process. Regardless if you need help getting a restraining order, financial restitution or to defend yourself from false allegations, our experienced team can help you.
So if you are ready to gain control of your situation and protect your financial future, don’t wait. Visit alimourilaw.com the leading Los Angeles criminal attorney, to get our attorneys to represent you with personalized help. Whether you are searching for a criminal defense lawyer or a domestic violence lawyer, we will be the ones to make sure you are heard and you are defended!