Domestic Violence, Trials and the Congressman

The Orlando Sentinel (www.orlandosentinel.com) reported today that Congressman Alan Grayson is embroiled in a particularly distasteful divorce which has now included allegations of Domestic Violence. Domestic Violence is all too common and can be investigated here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domestic_violence

Spousal Abuse occurs against Women and Men. It is NOT primarily focused on one gender, even though the United States funds the Office on Violence Against Women. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Office_on_Violence_Against_Women.

The Tamp Tribune picked up the story too. http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/alan-graysons-wife-says-he-shoved-her/2168521

Also today, a caller to my office asked whether there was any need to report an incident of domestic violence because "the officer said it was just 'he said she said."'

Whenever I have a client who relates incidents of domestic abuse, threats or violence, my advice is as follows:

1. Call the police. If you call, there will be a record in the future that at least you sought help.
2. File for an Injunction. If there was a negative impact to your person, or a threat of harm in the future, ask the courts for an injunction.
3. Do not dismiss the injunction prior to hearing. Dismissal of an injunction is almost always used to show that there was NO VIOLENCE in the first place, also showing that you were not truthful.
4. Get the advice of an attorney. You are not prepared to represent yourself in a courtroom environment. An attorney should know the rules and procedures to maximize your case. An attorney may be able to offer solutions that prevent court hearings while protecting you from allegations of untruthfulness.
5. Do Not Touch another person negatively.
6. Do Not Yell.
7. Do Not Threaten.

If you have been the victim of abuse, or if you have been falsely accused of abuse,
Please Seek the Help of A Qualified Attorney.
I am available by phone at 407-645-3297, or you may visit my website at www.aubreylaw.com
I look forward to meeting you and helping in your time of need.