Rhode Island Domestic Violence Lawyer

Defense Against Domestic Assault in Providence

Being in close proximity with your spouse, partner, or individual who is abusing you can be very scary. At McIntyre Tate LLP, we understand the impact domestic violence can have on you, your family, and your future. We can provide you with the protection and support you need at every stage, whether you are the victim of abuse or have been accused.

• A few common examples of the types of domestic violence our firm represents include:
• Physical violence and abuse
• Mental, verbal, and emotional abuse
• Stalking and harassment
• Threats or intimidation
• Child abuse or endangerment

What are the signs of an abusive relationship?

Here are some common signs of an abusive relationship:

1. Physical violence: This includes any form of physical harm or force, such as hitting, slapping, kicking, or choking.
2. Emotional and verbal abuse: This can involve constant criticism, humiliation, insults, name-calling, gaslighting, or manipulating the victim's emotions.
3. Controlling behavior: The abuser may exhibit controlling actions, such as monitoring the victim's activities, isolating them from friends and family, or dictating how they dress or behave.
4. Jealousy and possessiveness: The abuser may display extreme jealousy, accusing the victim of infidelity without evidence, or trying to control who the victim interacts with.
5. Threats and intimidation: This includes making threats of physical harm, harm to loved ones, or engaging in other intimidating behaviors to instill fear in the victim.
6. Financial control: The abuser may control the victim's finances, restrict their access to money, or prevent them from working.
7. Isolation: The abuser may isolate the victim from their support system, making it difficult for them to seek help or escape the abusive situation.
8. Blaming the victim: The abuser often places the blame on the victim for their actions and may make them feel responsible for the abuse.
9. Drastic mood swings: The abuser may exhibit sudden mood changes, going from being loving and kind to angry and aggressive.
10. Cycle of violence: Abusive relationships often follow a pattern of tension building, explosion (the actual abusive incident), and then a period of remorse or apology from the abuser, creating a cycle that repeats.

It's important to remember that each situation is unique, and not all abusive relationships display all these signs. If you suspect you or someone you know may be in an abusive relationship, consider reaching out to a helpline or support organization for guidance and assistance.

Restraining Orders, Divorce, & Custody for Victims

If you are the victim of domestic violence there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from future abuse. For example, you can work with a Rhode Island attorney to obtain a restraining order, which is sometimes known as a protective order. If your abuser violates the restraining order, he or she can be brought up on criminal charges.

Additionally, if your children are involved, it may be possible to obtain temporary custody and limit visitation for the abusive parent. Our Rhode Island domestic violence attorneys are skilled at all types of family law matters and can guide you through custody and visitation as part of a divorce or as a separate action.

The process of domestic violence

The first step of filing for a domestic violence charge starts with either an arrest or a protective order being requested. After the accused his been arrested, an arrangement or court date must be made. It is important to consult with a lawyer at any point during this process to determine the best course of action for either defense or accusation of domestic violence.

When you consult with our attorney, it is important to provide any and all pieces of evidence that will help your negotiations become more favorable. This may include issues such as a violent criminal history, threats made, false accusations, history of drug abuse, or mental health problems.

Once your trial has commenced, your wait time may take anywhere from several days to weeks. The length will largely depend on factors such as extensive evidence and testimony.

Spousal Abuse Accusations in Rhode Island

Courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement take domestic violence accusation very seriously in Rhode Island, and so does our firm. If you have been accused of domestic assault, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. These types of accusations can have an effect on your custody, visitation, or divorce case. If a restraining order is placed against you, it could limit your ability to go home and see your family.

Our Rhode Island domestic abuse attorneys take a team approach to protect your rights throughout the legal process. With more than 150 years of combined experience handling spousal abuse issues in the area of family law, we have the knowledge and resources to support you throughout every stage of your case in family court.

Contact our office at (401) 351-7700 to make an appointment. A member of our legal team will assess your situation, and we can work directly with you to find a swift resolution to your case.