Why don’t people in unhealthy relationships just leave? If you or someone you love has been through an abusive relationship, you understand that it’s never that easy. Isolation, emotional manipulation, physical threats, and financial control make escaping seem nearly impossible, but you deserve to live free of fear.
Keep these tips in mind as you prepare to leave.
Tell Someone
You do not have to go through this alone, and you shouldn’t have to. The first step is to talk to a trusted individual, whether it’s a family member, colleague, or friend. Let them know what’s happening with your marriage and ask them for help. You may need to contact them for a ride, a place to stay, or emotional support.
There are also numerous organizations dedicated to helping domestic abuse victims. Get free, confidential help here.
Make an Escape Plan
After reaching out to people, you should start working on an escape plan. This should outline every detail from what you’re bringing with you, the time you’re going to leave, and where you will go. Be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Have emergency cash, clothing, phone numbers, and documents (social security card, birth certificate, ID, health insurance card, passport) stashed in a safe place where your abuser cannot find it.
Contact an Experienced Family Lawyer
Talk to a lawyer experienced in domestic violence and ask for advice on the safest way to leave the marriage. We can help you file a protection order tailored to your situation that will put distance between you and the abuser and prohibit further contact. It can be scary to fight back against an abuser, but we will walk by your side each step of the way until you are safe.
Remember, you are never alone. Call Rutter and Sleeth Law Offices today at (573) 279-1349 if you need help obtaining a protective order from your spouse.