Those in violent relationships have different issues to consider during separation and divorce, especially where children are concerned. Some people consider leaving for a long time, and it takes tremendous courage to take the last step. Below are a few things for spouses and parents to consider in keeping themselves and their children safe during the transition.

Document Everything

As long as the victim and the abuser still live together, the victim should keep records of every incident of emotional or physical abuse involving themselves and the children. A record including the place, time and date of each event can be beneficial if the victim has to go to court to seek protection from an abuser.

Make a Safety Plan

After an abused spouse decides to leave, they need to plan carefully. Studies show that these spouses are in the most danger as they leave, and it is important for families to have a safety plan in place. Put aside money in a secret account, and leave a few changes of clothes at a friend’s or family member’s house before going to a shelter or a hotel.

Immediately File for Child Custody

If the spouse and children must leave quickly to get away from an abuser, the victim should hire a family lawyer in Winnebago County, IL and get an emergency protective order. These orders give the victim immediate custody of the children, and they require the abusive spouse to stay away from the rest of the family. Emergency custody orders are temporary, and a long-term plan is typically included in divorce or separation proceedings. Whether it’s in the short or the long term, the family court judge will base his or her custody decisions on the children’s best interests.

Visitation

It might seem odd for an abusive spouse to still get to see the children, but as long as the abuse wasn’t directed at the kids, they can still get visitation rights. If appropriate, however, a victim can ask for supervised visitation. It’s possible to arrange to have pickups and drop-offs done at a neutral location for everyone’s safety. Child visitation and custody issues are difficult even in the best situations, but domestic abuse can make things even more challenging. Visit Crosby Law Firm to find out how a family lawyer in Winnebago County, IL can help clients make the right choices for themselves and their children.