While every California relationship will have disagreements, arguments should never get to another level. That level is a physical or emotional level that can be incredibly damaging and abusive. No one should have to endure physical or emotional abuse by a loved one or family member. If one or their kids were subjected to domestic abuse, October is the month that brings awareness to that issue.

There are many reasons that one may feel the need to endure domestic violence on behalf of their spouse. Sometimes, financially people do not feel ready or prepared to move themselves or their children out of an abusive situation. Other times, there are emotional ties. Whatever the reason, no one should have to put up with that kind of abuse. Anyone suffering under domestic violence should remove themselves and any children from the situation.

For criminal records, it is good to put a person’s domestic abuse on record by reporting it to authorities. If they have children, and one fears for their safety, this could be beneficial if seeking full custody. If one is worried about caring for their children due to leaving a spouse, employers with 25 or more employees must allow up to 12 weeks of leave for victims of domestic violence to seek medical attention, go to counseling or relocate under California law.

This at least gives the family some breathing room and opportunity to rid themselves of a toxic situation. There are resources out there to help one out of a difficult home situation. It is about making the decision to move forward and leave an abusive relationship in the past. It is okay to have questions at this time and to seek answers to those questions to orchestrate a better situation for one and their family.

Source: National Center for Business Journalism, “Story Jump Start: Economic Impact of Domestic Violence,” Susan Johnson Taylor, Oct. 3, 2017