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It is safe to say that even the most stable of marriages can experience an occasional rough patch. Couples often disagree and argue with each other, which sometimes even leads to temporary separations. However, despite those squabbles, most couples refrain from physically abusing each other.
Sadly, domestic violence still remains a problem that transcends economic status, race, religion, nationality and even age. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, incidents involving domestic violence result in over 18.5 million hospital visits each year.
Women belong to the segment of American society most likely to experience incidents of domestic violence. Women comprise as much as 85 percent of all domestic violence cases. In fact, it is estimated that one in four women will experience some manner of domestic abuse over the course of their lifetimes.
Arguably, the best definition of domestic violence is explained by those being abused, although it is generally accepted that any physical or sexual assault or willful intimidation of an intimate partner is considered domestic violence.
Perhaps the greatest reason domestic violence is such a threat to marriage is that as many as 60 percent of offenders who abuse their intimate partners also abuse their children. It is also very unhealthy for the development of children growing up in homes where domestic violence occurs. According to ADHS, boys who grow up witnessing domestic violence are twice as likely to become offenders themselves in adulthood. Even more troubling, is that ADHS estimates that an Arizona child witnesses an incident involving domestic violence once every 44 minutes.
Domestic violence is a serious matter with long-term repercussions. If you are in Arizona resident who has been falsely accused of domestic violence, there are a few things you should know. A conviction for a domestic violence offense can result in a court limiting your access to your children and even your home. Your Arizona family law attorney can assist you in appealing orders of protection placed against you as well as other matters related to domestic violence allegations.
Source: Arizona Department of Health Services-Office of Women’s Health, “Domestic Violence Services – Home” Dec. 10, 2014
