Leaving a relationship and starting over on your own can be challenging for anyone, but even more so if you’ve been the victim of abuse. Often, walking away from a situation like this can seem too dangerous and financially impossible. However, no one should feel stuck in a partnership where they’re mistreated. With the guidance of a domestic violence attorney, you can determine your options for getting help and regaining control of your life.

Establish Financial Security

To begin a new life, you must gain financial independence from your significant other. Set money aside for living expenses in a secure place, such as a bank account or safe deposit box that’s just in your name. Also, you should always have some easily accessible cash.

Open your own credit cards and have the statements sent to a post office box. Gather important financial records, including past tax returns, W-2 forms, mortgage information, and statements from retirement accounts. Make copies to store away or take pictures and keep in a cloud drive.

Pack the Essentials

When you’re planning to depart an abusive relationship, pack some essential items that you can take with you in a hurry. This should include extra clothes for yourself and your children, Social Security cards, birth certificates, a spare set of keys, and prescription medications. Also, bring any evidence of the abuse that you have, such as police reports, photos of your injuries, and a dated journal that documents the incidents you’ve endured.

Have a Safety Plan 

First, find somewhere you can stay once you leave. Preferably, this should be with a friend or relative your significant other doesn’t know.

Create a contact list of people you can trust and establish a code word with family and friends that will alert them to when you need help without the abuser knowing. Plan to leave when you’re certain your partner is going to be away from the house.

Consult a Domestic Violence Attorney

If there’s any concern your partner will put you or your loved ones in danger, get a restraining order. A domestic violence attorney can help file the paperwork and present proof of the abuse. They will also advise you of your custody rights.

If you need legal advice and representation after escaping an abusive partner, turn to a domestic violence attorney at the Don Roberts Law Offices in Hilliard, OH. They are passionate about protecting their clients’ rights and will work diligently to resolve your case. Offering more than 20 years of experience, they’ve helped countless residents throughout Columbus, Dublin, and the remaining areas of Franklin County navigate the complexities of family law. Call (614) 777-4500 to schedule a free consultation or visit them online to learn more about their services.

_{Don Roberts Law Offices is based in Columbus, Ohio, but serves clients throughout the State of Ohio. Our office in Hilliard, Ohio is convenient to Dublin, New Jefferson, Bexley, Westerville, New Albany, Hilliard, Grove City, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, and other Franklin County municipalities. Our office is located in central Ohio and is just a short drive to/from anywhere in Ohio.  Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only and should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.  See our profile at Avvo.com or Martindale.com.}