Intimate partner violence (IPV) – also called dating violence – is a type of domestic violence taken seriously by the NJ justice system. Whether you're concerned about how to handle intimate partner violence or you stand accused of this offense, here's an overview of the key facts you should know about.
If you need assistance with any intimate partner violence issue, don't hesitate to call the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team today at 888.535.3686 or tell us about your case online.
What Is Intimate Partner Violence?
Intimate partner violence takes place between two individuals in a romantic or intimate relationship. It doesn't matter if the victim is a current or ex-intimate partner. If there's a pre-existing intimate relationship, it's considered IPV.
Categories of Intimate Partner Violence
IPV can take various forms – some being more subtle than others. Loosely, though, we can group intimate partner violence into physical and psychological actions.
- Physical Violence: This type of IPV includes, for example, criminal mischief, assault, rape, and non-consensual sexual activity.
- Psychological Violence: Harassment, stalking, and lewdness are among the most common examples of psychological violence.
When Must Police Investigate IPV Allegations?
In NJ, officers must investigate IPV allegations if they receive a complaint from the alleged victim and there's sufficient evidence to suggest the act occurred as described. The victim should also present with an injury, or there should be another aggravating factor compelling officers to respond, e.g., there's an alleged violation of an existing restraining order.
How Common Is Intimate Partner Violence?
IPV is common – let's consider some alarming statistics.
- In the US, 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 4 men, have experienced severe intimate partner violence.
- Women commonly experience repeated acts of intimate partner violence by the same abuser.
- IPV is common in college. In fact, young women aged between 18 and 24 are among the most common victims of intimate partner violence.
Intimate Partner Violence and Restraining Orders
In NJ, intimate partner violence victims can seek a restraining order (RO) to protect them from their alleged abuser. Restraining orders typically restrict the alleged abuser from interacting with the victim or from being within a certain proximity to them. They could even order the alleged abuser to continue providing financial support or to refrain from seeing their own children.
To obtain an RO, victims file a petition with their local family court. A judge will consider the facts and determine if an RO is necessary. If deemed necessary, the precise terms will depend on what a judge deems necessary to protect the victim from further harm.
In all cases, whether you are a victim of abuse or you're facing a restraining order, your first step should be seeking legal advice from experienced family attorneys. And this is why you should contact the Lento Law Firm today. To retain our services, contact the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team now online or by calling 888.535.3686.
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