Often, the term “domestic violence” brings to mind the physical violence or emotional abuse of one spouse by the other spouse. However, the term can also encompass violence or other abuse between any family members, as any Dallas family violence attorney knows. This can include violence from parent to child, sibling to sibling and even child to parent. Unfortunately, domestic abuse victims do not always come forward to get the help they need.
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant is still dealing with misdemeanor charge of assault family violence. The charges are the result of an alleged attack by Bryant on his mother. According to the report, during a heated argument, Bryant used a baseball hat to slap his mother’s face. Initially, the district attorney raised questions about accepting the case, but it now appears that the case will move forward.
Domestic abuse and family violence can occur in any family situation, and is not dependent upon age, education level or socioeconomic background. Though the law varies by state, victims of family violence or abuse can generally receive a temporary restraining order. Because the definition of who can be a victim of domestic abuse is wider than commonly believed, friends and family members of abuse victims are encouraged to provide whatever support they can.
Often, in situations where the victim does not want to press charges, a case of domestic violence may be difficult to prove. However, prosecutors may decide to pursue criminal charges even without the assistance of the victim. In this case, Bryant’s mother did not want to press charges, but the prosecutor’s office conducted its own investigation and has stated that it is acting in the best interest of the entire community, as well as for the victim’s benefit.
Though situations of domestic violence can be incredibly convoluted, families do not have to handle the legal issues on their own. With trustworthy advice and assistance, families can get the help they need and work to resolve their issues in an effective and swift manner.
Source: ESPN, “Dez Bryant still facing charges,” Calvin Watkins, Nov. 1, 2012