If you are concerned that your own behaviors may be unhealthy or abusive towards your partner, you too can get help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799- 7233) can refer you to programs and services to help prevent violence. The operators are always impartial, empathetic, willing to listen and withhold judgment. They can help you identify unhealthy behaviors in your relationship and brainstorm healthy alternatives for those behaviors.   Victims of domestic violence need a plan for safety, beginning with knowing what to do when a violent incident occurs. Try to keep away from rooms containing dangerous objects (kitchens, bathrooms) and know...

Nearly three-quarters of Americans say they know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence. If you see something, say something. Incidents of battery are rarely isolated and usually increase in frequency and intensity over time. Between 30% and 60% of abusers who target their spouse or partners also abuse their children. If you are a neighbor of a household that you believe may be experiencing domestic violence, please do not turn a blind eye. Being ready to witness and call the authorities when appropriate could save a life.   If you suspect that a friend or co-worker may...

Domestic abuse isn't always physical. Men, women and children can be abused verbally or emotionally and the consequences of these types of abuse can be just as devastating as physical violence. Emotional or psychological abuse is meant to control the victim. The abuser will belittle, degrade and humiliate the victim in order to exercise more complete control. This often includes withholding access to a car or to money, for example.   An abuser will often attempt to isolate their victim, restricting access to friends and family, or denying them the ability to go out in public without the abuser. This increases the...

Domestic violence is an issue that touches millions of lives every year. In the coming days, Tessmer Law Firm will provide tips and information on this important subject, beginning with some facts:   1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United States - more than car accidents, rape and muggings combined. About 4,000 women die each year as a result of domestic violence. 1 in 3 abused children will become abusers themselves. On average, a woman will leave an...

Picking up and starting over after the loss of decades worth of plans is the most crushing aspect of divorce after age 50.  Change that touches every aspect of your life can be emotionally devastating.  It is natural to grieve. You have, after all, spent half a lifetime together, if not more.  But put conscious effort into moving forward and make the second half of your life worth living. You can now make choices and be open to opportunities that you may not have considered before divorce. Surround yourself with supportive family and friends.  Stay active and involved in your...

Consult with a qualified attorney, even if you feel your situation is simple. Don’t make any agreements before you are fully informed. Even though you may agree to something and you know you can change your mind about it, don't set up that expectation. By negotiating too early, you may create barriers and expectations that make later negotiations more difficult. Spouses need to be on an even playing field with both knowing what they have and what their range of options are. That will save money and heartache down the road....