Medical Treatment and Domestic Violence
Although not all domestic abuse manifests itself as physical violence, there are many cases in which injuries may occur. If serious enough, a victim may go to a hospital or family practitioner in order to close up deep cuts or set broken bones. To an outsider, this may seem like an obvious place or time for that victim to report their spouse, relative, or parent, but this is rarely the case.
For more information regarding protective orders and other legal measures that can help to put an end to the abuse, contact the Austin family law lawyers of Slater Kennon, LLP, by calling 512-472-2431. Let our experience help you fight for your future today.
Complications with Doctors and Violence
Domestic abuse is a serious problem that affects a sizeable number of American households each year. Despite public health campaigns to stop the violence and promote openness about reporting abuse, domestic violence is still considered by many to be a private matter. Due to this sort of thinking, some physicians may be unprepared to handle the actual needs of abuse victims. The following problems can arise:
- Failure to recognize or inquire about signs of abuse
- Lack of training to respond to victims’ needs
- Lack of knowledge concerning legal options
- Unwillingness to intervene
Victims of abuse are pressed and pushed into situations in which their fear keeps them silent. Although, as a society, we may hope that physicians would be able to help identify abuse, this is not always the case.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know is suffering in an abusive relationship, coming forward for legal assistance is one of the most important first steps. Despite their training in the field of medicine, not all doctors are poised to present the proper legal options for abuse victims. To learn more about how the law can help those suffering in abusive relationships, contact the Austin family law attorneys of Slater Kennon, LLP, at 512-472-2431 today.