• WomensLaw.Org -
Information regarding state specific domestic violence laws, child custody issues, protection orders and other resources related to domestic violence in a particular state
Domestic Violence Discussion
with Jennifer Landhuis
17. Question: - I have recently separated from my husband because he would physically and verbally abuse me. I never called the police or did anything against him because I thought he would change and I was scared to death he would come after me if I reported it. Now that we are separated, the only way for me to not let him try to take the kids and get government help immediately, I need to report it. I live in New York. Is it too late? We just separated one month ago and the the abuse has been going on for four years.
Answer: I would advise you to make contact with your local domestic violence program to see what your legal options are. The National DV hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE. You may have "evidence" that doesn't include a police report such as an employee record or photos that a family member may have or that you took yourself. I would encourage you to think through the consequence of reporting such as retribution from your husband. Police may be able to take "incident reports" but really do nothing further with them since the abuse was in the past.
Your best option, really, is to be in touch with a local program so they can help you evaluate the pros and cons of reporting and they may have additional options as far as receiving financial assistance or filing for a protection order or emergency cusotody order.
