SPECIAL ISSUES

If your case involves domestic violence and/or child abuse, you should make these matters known to your attorney immediately.

1. VIOLENCE
   

   If your spouse has a history of violence or threats of violence toward you or others, you should be aware of the availability of protective orders which can be issued by the court. These orders will prohibit your spouse from coming near you, your residence or place of business. Violation of the order can result in immediate arrest.

   However, if a person is intent on causing harm to another, no court order will provide full protection from danger. You may need to consider taking refuge in a shelter or other secure location. These are serious matters and you should employ all means to protect yourself from harm. This also means that you should IMMEDIATELY cease any contact with your spouse.

2. CHILD ABUSE
   

   If you have reason to believe that your child has been abused, you should immediately report it to the local police or child welfare authority as well as your attorney. However, you should never make unfounded or capricious allegations of child abuse. That will adversely impact your position in a child custody dispute.

   If the allegation is based upon sound evidence, your attorney will discuss the methods available to protect the child from further abuse. In most cases, the child should be seen by a physician and/or mental health professional as soon as you learn of the abuse.