What If Domestic Abuse Is Involved?
You may be filing for divorce because your spouse has harassed or physically abused you. It is important that you tell this to your lawyer. This is important because it may be possible to waive the 90-day waiting period. If you have reason to believe that your spouse intends to harm you again, your lawyer can file a temporary restraining order. The restraining order forbids your spouse from contacting you.
An abusive spouse tends to say he or she is sorry and promises not to repeat the abusive behavior. However, the abuse usually continues. It often becomes more violent in time, especially when the abuser believes he/she is ?losing? the other spouse. Domestic violence intervention programs offer temporary housing and counseling for victims of violence and their children.
Also, evidence of abuse has an effect on decisions about visitation, custody, and mediation. The court should do what is necessary to protect a victim of abuse when deciding these issues. Again, tell your lawyer of the abuse. Contact Iowa Legal Aid and ask for the booklet Domestic Abuse and the Law. Call the 24-hour statewide, this toll-free number to find out about the local Domestic Abuse Program that can help you.
Statewide Domestic Abuse Hotline:
1-800-942-0333
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