December 2, 2016, In Family Law
Three years ago, a boy’s mother told her husband that she had sent her autistic son to an institution in Mexico. Recently, however, the boy’s stepfather learned the disturbing truth when his wife led him to a closet in their home and revealed the dead body of her son.
Unbeknown to his stepfather, the boy been locked in the closet for 3 years. He weighed 34 pounds, was balding and had been regularly sedated in order to prevent his discovery. After learning that the boy was dead in the closet, the stepfather immediately notified authorities.
Court documents indicate that the family had previous contact with the Department of Children and Family Services. They were reported for potential abuse to DCFS 6 times prior to the death but the allegations were determined were inconclusive.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is abuse that occurs within the home. While it is generally thought of spousal abuse, it can also include abuse of children or other family members. This means that domestic violence is usually covered by specific family code and in the jurisdiction of the family court.
Domestic violence can be devastating for victims and their families. Oftentimes, abuse that occurs within the confines of the home goes unnoticed to the outside world. Additionally, familial ties frequently discourage victims of domestic violence from reporting that abuse to the proper authorities out of fear of losing their security. Finally, since domestic violence also carries criminal punishment, many victims are wary of getting themselves embroiled in the criminal justice system.
Some common forms of domestic violence:
- Physical Abuse
- Psychological Abuse
- Sexual Abuse
- Harassment/ Stalking
- Economic Abuse
Domestic Violence & Divorce
Domestic violence in Los Angeles is a common trigger for divorce – especially when a parent learns their child has become a victim at the hands of their spouse. That being said, divorces originating from domestic violence can also become more volatile than those that are mutual.
As both domestic violence and divorce are incredibly complex issues, it is important for parties to seek advice from an experienced attorney.
If you, or a loved one, are living in Los Angeles and seeking legal advice on either domestic violence, divorce, or both, we invite you to contact WHITMARSH FAMILY LAW, PC today for a free consultation at (310) 552-3505.
Our Los Angeles divorce attorneys are well versed in California family law and ready to create a plan to assure that you receive the remedies that are available to you.
