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What Can You do about Domestic Violence
If You Are Hurt, What can You Do?
- There are no easy answers, but there are things you can do to protect yourself.
- Call the police or sheriff. Assault, even by family members, is a crime. The police often have information about shelters and other agencies that help victims of domestic violence.
- Contact your county's family court for information about a civil protection order that does not involve criminal charges or penalties.
- Get medical attention from your doctor or hospital emergency room. Ask the staff to photograph your injuries and keep detailed records in case you decide to take legal action.
- Leave, or have someone come and stay with you. Go to the Joplin's Lafayette House. If you believe that you, and your children, are in danger - leave immediately.
Have You Hurt Someone in Your family?
- Accept the fact that your violent behavior will destroy your family. Be aware that you break the law when you physically hurt someone.
- Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233, or Joplin's Lafayette House at (800) 416-1772 and ask about counseling and support groups for people who batter.
- Take responsibility for your actions and get help.
- When you feel tension building, get away. Work off the angry energy through a walk, a project, or a sport.
The High Cost of Domestic Violence?
- Jobs can be lost or careers stalled because of injuries, arrests, or harassment.
- Men and women who follow their parents' example and use violence to solve conflicts are teaching the same destructive behavior to their children.
- Violence may even result in death.