A candlelight vigil was recently held for a domestic violence victim who had been stabbed to death in her bathtub. The woman was in the process of breaking up with her boyfriend, who was arrested on murder charges. The vigil was organized by an organization known as W.A.R.M., which helps domestic violence victims in crisis. 

If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence in New Jersey, then you must seek strong protection in your crisis. You can get help with a restraining order from the experienced legal professionals at Lento Law Firm Family Law Team at 888.535.3686 or contact the offices online. 

Domestic Violence in New Jersey 

It is common knowledge that a victim of domestic violence is urged to leave the home to escape abuse. But many don't realize those victims are at greatest risk for injury when in the process of leaving an abuser. 

In New Jersey, domestic violence is defined by the Department of Law and Safety and the New Jersey Attorney General's office as; 

“a pattern of physical, emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse, which includes, but is not limited to, threats, intimidation, isolation, and/or financial control. Domestic Violence can continue over a long period of time and becomes more frequent and more severe over time. 

Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships and can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together, or dating.”  

New Jersey has one of the strongest and most comprehensive statutes concerning domestic violence. Additional statistics show that the majority ( 76%) of New Jersey domestic violence victims are women; however, men are also subject to domestic violence. Women are also 500 times more likely to be killed if a gun is present in an abusive home. 

Timing Is Important When Leaving an Abusive Relationship 

It is important to reach out for help when leaving an abusive situation. One organization, domesticshelters.org, has many helpful tips for safely escaping domestic abuse. Some of these tips include : 

• Trust your gut about when to leave. Many people will give a victim the advice to leave, but the survivor must choose the correct timing. It must be clear that leaving represents the end of the relationship, not just a bid for attention. 
• Don't try to leave alone. Talk over options with friends or family members or get help from a domestic violence hotline. 
• Make a safety plan and pack. Pack all the necessary things for a permanent life away from the abuser. This includes important documents. If removing too many things looks suspicious, take some things over to a trusted friend.  
• Create an emergency signal. Have a plan for a signal or an emergency code word for family and friends that will alert them that you are in trouble and the police should be called. 

Get Help With a Restraining Order Today 

It is essential that a domestic violence victim retain professional legal services to protect their rights. Violence may escalate as the victim proceeds to leave the abuser, and a restraining order will offer a level of protection. If you are a domestic violence victim, contact Lento Law Firm Family Law Team at 888.535.3686.