Domestic violence is a devastating issue that affects individuals and families in all communities, including those in New York State and New York City. It can take many forms, including physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse, and is used to control and intimidate a partner. Victims of domestic violence often feel trapped, isolated, and afraid, and may not know where to turn for help.
Fortunately, there are many resources available in the form of shelters, crisis centers, safe houses, and transitional housing, as well as legal services, financial assistance, counseling, therapy, support groups, and advocacy that can provide victims with the support they need to escape an abusive situation and begin to heal.
Domestic Violence Shelters and Safe Houses
One of the most important resources available to victims of domestic violence is a safe place to stay. In New York State and New York City, there are many shelters and safe houses that provide victims with a safe and confidential place to stay. These shelters often provide counseling, therapy, and other support services, as well as help with finding more permanent housing options.
Crisis Centers
Crisis centers are another important resource for victims of domestic violence. These centers provide immediate and confidential support, as well as help with developing a safety plan and connecting victims with other resources. In New York State and New York City, there are many crisis centers that provide help to victims of domestic violence.
Transitional Housing For Victims Of Domestic Violence
For victims of domestic violence who are ready to leave an abusive situation and start a new life, transitional housing can be a critical resource. Transitional housing provides victims with a safe and affordable place to stay while they work on rebuilding their lives. Many organizations in New York State and New York City provide transitional housing to victims of domestic violence.
Legal Services and Financial Assistance
Two other very important resources for victims of domestic violence are legal services and financial assistance. Victims of domestic violence can seek help from legal services providers in order to obtain protection orders, restraining orders, and other legal remedies that can help keep them safe. Additionally, victims of domestic violence may be eligible for financial assistance to help them pay for housing, food, and other basic needs.
Counseling and Therapy
Counseling and therapy can be critical for victims of domestic violence as they work through the trauma of their experiences. Many shelters, crisis centers, and other organizations in New York State and New York City provide counseling and therapy services to victims of domestic violence.
Support Groups
Support groups can also be a valuable resource for victims of domestic violence. These groups provide a safe and confidential space for victims to share their experiences and support each other. Many shelters, crisis centers, and other organizations in New York State and New York City provide support groups for victims of domestic violence.
Advocacy
Advocacy is another important resource for victims of domestic violence. Advocates can provide victims with information, support, and assistance as they navigate the legal and social service systems. Many shelters, crisis centers, and other organizations in New York State and New York City provide advocacy services to victims of domestic violence.
If you have filed a case in Family Court, you may qualify for a free lawyer, depending on your income. There are also some organizations which will occasionally take these types of cases on a pro bono basis.
Protection Orders and Restraining Orders
Protection orders and restraining orders can be critical for victims of domestic violence who are trying to leave an abusive situation. These legal remedies can prohibit an abuser from coming into contact with the victim, and can provide an added layer of safety. Victims of domestic violence can seek help from legal services providers in order to obtain a protection order or restraining order.
However, in the end, an order of protection is merely a piece of paper which does not guarantee that the abuser will leave you alone. In very serious situations, it is prudent to relocate to a confidential address or even to a domestic violence shelter.
Police
The police can also be a valuable resource for victims of domestic violence. In New York City every precinct has a dedicated Domestic Violence Officer, usually female, who has had extensive training in understanding the dynamic of domestic violence and how victims are affected by domestic violence.
While for some years the New York City police department has had a “must arrest” policy that requires officers to make arrests if there is probably cause that an order of protection has been violated, unfortunately many officers do not follow the guidelines which are clearly set out in the Patrol Guide. In this situation the victim can go down to the precinct in person and asking to speak with the Domestic Violence Officer.
