Common Misconceptions About Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, domestic violence is a pervasive crime in the United States. About one in four women and one in seven men will be the victims of domestic abuse in their lifetimes. When a victim makes a complaint against their abuser to the police, the abuser may be tried in court for domestic violence charges. When it comes to domestic violence, there are many myths and misconceptions that exist. Keep reading to get the facts straight on this prevalent issue.
Myth: Only men commit domestic violence.
When people think of domestic violence, they often envision men as abusers and women as victims. However, this is not always the case. Women can be guilty of domestic violence against men, and domestic violence does not always occur between partners in a romantic relationship.
Myth: Victims can drop domestic violence charges.
Domestic violence cases do tend to be complicated, because there is a mixed range of emotions that a victim may feel towards their abuser. While there may be anger and resentment, there is also an established relationship at play, and that can cause feelings of guilt or remorse once charges have been filed. For this reason, many victims will drop complaints of domestic violence after the fact. However, this does not necessarily dismiss a domestic violence case. A victim may be compelled to testify in a case as a hostile witness, or other evidence and witness testimony may be used to move forward with domestic violence charges.
Myth: Domestic abuse is only physical.
Domestic violence is a tag that can be attached to a wide range of criminal charges. Beyond physical assault, threats and verbal abuse can constitute domestic violence.
If you have been charged with a crime, including domestic violence, call the office of Janet Altschuler to protect your rights and better understand the charges raised against you. You can reach Ms. Altschuler in Tucson by calling (520) 829-4460.