My Husband Was Violent And Now We Are Getting A Divorce In Florida. Does His Violent Behavior Matter During The Divorce Process?

Although not talked about much, domestic violence is a serious public health problem.

About one in three women have been physically abused by an intimate partner.

A woman is assaulted or beaten in the U.S. every nine seconds.

Divorce can be a very scary time for women who are victims of domestic abuse.

Their husbands’ anger may escalate, and it may be the first time these women stand up to their husbands’ control and abuse. They may be afraid for their physical safety and their finances in the future.

A husband’s violent behavior in the past can make a big difference in divorce proceedings.

Someone who has a history of domestic violence is unlikely to receive custody of the children.

The wife may need to take out an order of protection, depending on the level of abuse and the circumstances.

If the husband has prevented the wife from working during the marriage, which is common in many abusive situations, the wife’s alimony award could be significantly increased.

If you are in an abusive relationship, do not let your fear about your financial future or fears for your physical safety stop you from leaving.

Call a domestic abuse hotline, or create a safety plan for leaving the abusive relationship.

You should also speak with an attorney about your legal options for leaving the marriage.

If you file for divorce, you can ask for temporary alimony, child support, and temporary custody of the home, which will allow you to get financially on your feet again.