What Are My Options as a Victim of Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence has become increasingly prevalent today’s society. In many situations, the abused party is not sure where to turn, nor what to do when it comes to the legal system. Many are unaware on what remedies the civil court could potentially provide to help them.

The court may grant the following relief to the abused party:

1. Direct the Respondent to refrain from abusing the family or household family members;
2. Grant possession of the residence to the petitioner or otherwise;
3. Grant possession of the residence to the petitioner by ordering the respondent to vacate the residence when both the respondent and the petitioner jointly own or lease the residence;
4. Grant possession of the residence to the petitioner by ordering the respondent to vacate the residence where the respondent has a duty to support the petitioner (or other household member) and the respondent is the sole owner or lessee of the residence or , alternatively, allow the respondent to arrange for suitable housing for the petitioner or other family or household member;
5. Award temporary custody of minor children, provided no other court has assumed jurisdiction, and award visitation and companionship rights;
6. Award support if the respondent has a duty to support the petitioner, or if the respondent customarily provides for, or contributes to, the support of the family or household member;
7. Require the respondent, petitioner, or victim to seek counseling;
8. Require the respondent to refrain from entering the residence, school, or business or place of employment of the petitioner, or other household member; and
9. Grant any other relief that the court considers equitable and proper, including division of household and family personal property, and otherwise ordering respondent to permit the use of a motor vehicle to petitioner. A division of property pursuant to RC 3113.31, however, does not necessarily operate as a total property settlement in a related divorce proceeding.

If you believe you have a basis for a court ordered remedy in regards to domestic violence, please contact our office to discuss your options.