Domestic Violence on the Rise During Coronavirus Lockdown

The COVID-19 coronavirus has changed the landscape for how we approach our daily lives. Most Americans are now subject to stay-at-home orders or guidance. The stay-at-home rules have disrupted businesses, court proceedings, and education. For many people, the situation is even grimmer: Reports have indicated that domestic violence has been rising globally as a result of the coronavirus lockdowns. Continue reading for more about the growing domestic violence issue and for how to get help if you are facing the threat of domestic violence in your home. Call a compassionate New Jersey domestic violence attorney for help with domestic abuse or another New Jersey family law matter.

Domestic Abuse Rises Worldwide

As people are forced to stay at home all day for many days in a row, tempers are rising, and many domestic situations that were already on edge have turned violent and dangerous. According to reports from the New York Times, NPR, and other sources, domestic violence has become an even more emergent problem than it already was. Relationships that were already abusive have become even worse as families are locked in tight spaces together for an extended period of time. Many victims of domestic violence now fear they have nowhere to go should any violence occur due to quarantine and shelter orders.

The problem is global, prompting the United Nations to “urge all governments to put women’s safety first as they respond to the pandemic.” In many countries, the number of women calling support services hotlines has doubled.

The problem has permeated the U.S. as well. Domestic violence shelters remain open in the U.S., although many are screening for symptoms of COVID-19. Individuals who have experienced or who fear domestic violence should still call the police or a domestic violence hotline and get to a safe place. Resources remain available even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

You Can Still Get a Restraining Order

As we previously discussed, to slow the spread of the coronavirus, New Jersey courts have been largely closed until at least April 27. Most family law court proceedings have been put on hold. However, New Jersey’s superior courts will still accept certain emergency applications. In Union county, for example, there are instructions for filing an emergent application relating to domestic violence online.

If you have an urgent need for a restraining order, get yourself and your children to safety, contact the authorities and reach out to a family law attorney to help you file an emergency application for a restraining order.

Domestic violence restraining order proceedings that have already been scheduled may still proceed, with modifications (such as via teleconference). Speak with your family law attorney about your scheduled hearing to learn if there have been any changes or delays.

Get Help from a Dedicated New Jersey Domestic Violence Lawyer

If you are facing the threat of violence in your home in New Jersey, speak with a compassionate and understanding domestic violence and family law attorney at the Union offices of family law attorney John B. D’Alessandro. Call us today at 908-964-0102.