Domestic violence charges always have the power to ruin lives. In a case of incompatible versions of events, like a he-said-she-said case with little objective evidence, law enforcement officers and victim advocates often look for risk factors around a situation to determine if people are safe or not.
What about individual people may lead to domestic violence?
People under the influence of alcohol or drugs always run the risk of extreme behavior. Aggressive behavior and a history of accepting violence as part of their lives are also considered risk factors. Radical approaches to personal relationships or a history of personal harm may also be part of domestic violence.
What about the relationship that a person is in?
A history of accepting violence may run in the family, and child victims can become adult perpetrators. Poor family relationships and professional opportunities can also be detrimental to mental health and peaceful home life, and these may raise a red flag under police investigation.
How can people prevent domestic violence?
Honest communication without emotional extremes like shouting or throwing things can help diffuse conflicts or reduce their effect. A general attitude of empathy and calm helps people get ahead of impulses that can lead to violence as well. It’s also good to show this in court if necessary, as the appearance of an unstable personality may be seen in a dim view.
What sort of help can people get?
People accused of domestic violence charges always have a right to legal representation if a case ends up involving the police or a judge. An attorney can help examine risk factors and circumstances surrounding an incident or an alleged one, which can help build a narrative for consideration in court.