Austin Domestic Violence Lawyer Near You
Domestic violence is a deeply prevalent issue in Texas, with 1 in 3 Texans experiencing it at some point in their lives, according to the Texas Advocacy Project. Particularly vulnerable individuals are girls and young women between the ages of 16 and 24, who face intimate partner violence at nearly triple the national rate, which is more than concerning. The issue has been further exacerbated by pandemic-related lockdowns, which led to an 8.1% increase in domestic violence incidents throughout the state. Despite these troubling statistics, there are legal avenues available to help protect victims of domestic violence. Protective orders, for instance, are up to 80% effective in reducing future violence, providing a safety net for those seeking safety and justice.
Eric M. Willie is a dedicated domestic violence lawyer in Austin, Texas, who takes a firm stance against domestic violence, showing no leniency when it comes to protecting his clients. He works tirelessly to ensure that victims are safeguarded and their rights are upheld when pursuing justice and protection from their abusers. With a deep commitment to justice, Eric M. Willie provides strong legal representation, striving to provide information on domestic violence victims’ rights and secure the necessary protections for those affected by domestic violence, helping them to rebuild their lives and find peace of mind.
What Is Considered Domestic Violence In Texas?
In Texas, domestic violence is legally defined as any situation where a person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to a family member. While the state does not use the term “domestic violence” as a separate legal charge, the crime is officially called “assault on a family member.” However, it is commonly referred to as domestic violence because Texas defines “family members” broadly when addressing the issue. This includes not only immediate family members but also extends to others with close familial or household relationships with the domestic violence victim. As such, domestic violence charges in Texas can apply to a wide range of situations involving individuals who share household or familial relationships.
When it comes to domestic violence, the term “family member” is broadly defined and applies to three main groups of people, including:
- Family Members: This includes biological and non-biological family members, referring to those related by blood or adoption. Examples include parents, step-parents, siblings, children, grandparents, and step-siblings.
- Dating Partners: This category includes individuals you are currently dating/married to or have dated/been married to in the past, such as a fiancé, husband, ex-boyfriend, or ex-girlfriend. Even if the relationship ended long ago, they are still considered family members under Texas law when it comes to domestic violence. A “dating relationship” is defined as a continuing romantic or intimate relationship, which may include sexual relationships even if the relationship isn’t officially defined as dating.
- Household Members: Refer to people who live or used to live with you, regardless of whether they are related by blood, relationship, or marriage. Roommates or extended family members, such as in-laws, are included as family members under this category. Texas law does not specify a minimum duration for cohabitation to qualify as a household member.
Common Types Of Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse can manifest itself in several forms, but the three main types are physical, emotional, and financial abuse.
- Physical Abuse – This involves any intentional act of violence, such as:
- Hitting
- Slapping
- Pushing
- Using weapons to cause harm
Physical abuse can leave visible injuries, and it also has lasting emotional effects.
- Emotional Abuse – Emotional abuse uses mental manipulation, threats, humiliation, and isolation to control or belittle a victim. It often damages a person’s mental health, self-esteem, and sense of safety.
- Financial Abuse – Financial abuse occurs when an abuser controls or limits a victim’s access to money and financial resources. This can include stealing, preventing the victim from working, or sabotaging their financial independence, which in many cases forces the victim to stay with their abuser.
Each of these forms of abuse can have serious, long-term impacts on a victim’s physical and emotional well-being.
What Impact Does Domestic Violence Have On Victims?
Domestic violence leaves far more than physical wounds on victims. It can also profoundly disrupt nearly every part of a victim’s life, with effects that often last long after the abuse has ended. Survivors of domestic violence may face many different challenges that can take years to heal, if ever. The experience of living under constant fear and manipulation can damage a person’s sense of identity, security, and hope for the future, no matter the kind of domestic abuse they went through. Many victims of domestic abuse in Texas find it difficult to regain their footing without extensive support, therapy, and legal intervention. The toll domestic violence takes can be seen in a variety of ways, including:
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma – Victims of abuse often suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of ongoing abuse. These mental health struggles can make it difficult to trust others, maintain relationships, or even perform daily tasks.
- Physical Injuries and Health Issues – Beyond immediate physical injuries like bruises or broken bones, victims of abuse may experience long-term health problems such as chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, or neurological damage. These physical effects of abuse can act as constant reminders of the abuse and may require ongoing medical treatment.
- Loss of Self-Esteem and Confidence – Repeated emotional or physical attacks can destroy a victim’s self-esteem, making them believe they deserve the mistreatment. Low self-esteem can create additional barriers that prevent victims from seeking help, leaving them feeling trapped and powerless.
- Social Isolation – Abusers often intentionally cut victims off from friends, family, and support networks to maintain control. Over time, this isolation can lead to intense loneliness and a feeling of having no one to turn to for help or emotional support.
- Financial Instability – Many victims are forced to leave their jobs, homes, or financial resources behind when escaping abuse. Financial insecurity can make it even more difficult for survivors to gain independence and rebuild their lives, causing them to continue to stay with their abuser.
- Impact on Children and Family Dynamics – When children witness domestic violence, they too suffer emotionally and psychologically. Often, they end up carrying the trauma into adulthood. The overall family structure may become fractured, leading to strained relationships and long-term emotional consequences for children.
Domestic violence leaves a devastating imprint on victims’ lives, but with proper legal protections, community support, and therapeutic resources, many survivors can begin to heal and reclaim their independence after going through abuse. Victims must have access to the tools and protections they need to move forward safely and confidently.
How Domestic Violence Victims Can Protect Themselves
Escaping an abusive situation can feel overwhelming and impossible, but there are important steps abuse victims can take to protect themselves and begin reclaiming their lives. Safety should always be the priority, and having a clear plan in place to protect oneself can make all the difference. Some of the key ways victims can protect themselves include:
- Creating a Safety Plan – This includes:
- Identifying safe places to go
- Preparing an emergency bag with essentials (important documents, cash, keys, medications)
- Setting up a system to communicate with trusted friends or family members if immediate help is needed
- Seeking Shelter – Many communities have domestic violence shelters in place that can provide temporary housing, counseling, and resources in a secure and confidential location.
- Documenting The Abuse – Keeping a detailed record of incidents of abuse, including dates, times, descriptions, and any evidence (photos, texts, emails), can be important when taking legal action and protective orders.
- Contacting Law Enforcement – If immediate danger exists, calling 911 and involving the police can help provide swift protection and create a formal record of the abuse for court purposes.
- Obtaining a Protective Order – A court-issued protective order (also known as a restraining order) can legally prohibit the abuser from contacting, approaching, or harming the victim. It will also prevent them from obtaining or being in possession of firearms and other weapons that they could potentially use to hurt the victim.
Contact A Domestic Violence Lawyer In Austin, Texas, Today
One of the most effective steps domestic abuse victims can take is reaching out to an experienced domestic violence attorney in Austin, Texas, like Eric M. Willie. Based in Austin, Eric M. Willie works tirelessly to help our clients secure protective orders and make sure their rights and safety are fully protected. With his strong commitment to standing against domestic violence, he can help victims maneuver through the legal process, helping them take back control of their lives with the protection and advocacy they deserve. Remember, you do not have to face domestic violence alone. Help is available, and taking action today by speaking to a domestic violence lawyer in Austin, Texas, can be the first step toward a safer and stronger future.
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Reviews of Our Top-Rated Austin, Texas Domestic Violence Attorneys
“This firm represented me in my divorce for almost a year and we won all of our hearings. Mr. Willie is an outstanding attorney who know the ins and outs of both family law and the court system. You couldn’t ask for a better lawyer. Highly recommend.” – Valorie Bravo
“I met with Eric and the hospitality was great. He broke everything down to me perfectly and I greatly appreciated it. He is willing to fight for everything you want to accomplish during your tough times. I would definitely recommend him to anyone needing a Family Attorney!” – Christopher Colter
“I found Mr. Willie both competent and professional. His strategy to address a modification petition was sound and successful. What impressed me most was his matter of fact way of analyzing the issues. He was candid and kept things simple as well as understandable. No confusing legal talk, just a clear, direct and sensible manner of approaching the conflict. Further, if you’re looking for a lawyer that will go the extra mile, Eric Willie is your man. We encountered a filing issue due to the COVID shutdown and he stayed with it until completion, proving himself a loyal and devoted attorney. I remain grateful for Mr. Willie’s services and would recommend him for any family law proceedings.” – Freddy Erdman
These are just some of our 176+ Google reviews.