Domestic Violence - Where Can I Turn For Help?

domestic violence

Victims of domestic violence often don’t know where to turn to seek help. Fear of making the situation worse sometimes prevents battered women (and men) from reporting abuse to the proper authorities; the state of NH has numerous crisis centers and hotlines to counsel victims of domestic abuse.  If your injuries have caused you to seek medical attention, hospital staff can put you into contact with the police.  If you’re leaving an abusive spouse or partner, you may request a police escort from the premises. 

Victims of domestic violence have the right to file a restraining order (also called a “protective order”) against stalkers and abusers; the restraining order requires the offender to keep a certain physical distance away from the victim and to refrain from communicating with her/him in any way. Unfortunately, the victim often has to contact the police to enforce the order.  To the extent that it is possible, you should change your locks, phone number, and e-mail address.  Avoid staying with close friends or family that are known to the abuser.  Don’t cave to pressure or appeals to sympathy.  Abusers manipulate their victims to establish control.  Your life may be at risk.

To file a protective order, you have to go in person to the nearest county courthouse.  The clerk will provide you with the necessary forms.  If you are in immediate physical danger, you can file a temporary order that will go into effect right away and will last until a formal hearing can be held.  The other party has the right to contest or appeal the temporary order within the three to five days.  You must be present at that hearing.  The final hearing occurs within thirty days of filing the application. Both the victim and the alleged abuser present their case to the judge at this conference.  You may want an attorney to represent you at this hearing, although it isn’t necessary.  If your situation requires emergency relief, contact an attorney or your local police station.

The New Hampshire Coalition against Domestic and Sexual Violence has an excellent website with contact information for crisis centers, safety tips, and financial and legal advice (www.nhcadsv.org).  An experienced criminal attorney can assist you with pressing charges.  That decision, of course, rests entirely with you.

Articles contained here are not intended to provide legal advice, only providing general information. We encourage individuals to consult with an attorney regarding individual circumstances.