In fact, the legal experts at Lawyers.com say that most courts define "abuse" as any type of parental behavior that "threatens a child's physical or emotional well-being." While this obviously includes physical or sexual abuse, it also includes traumatic verbal and emotional abuse as well as neglect.
What are the legal consequences of emotional abuse?
In some cases, victims of emotional abuse or their families can file civil lawsuits. Many of these lawsuits can be negligence or wrongful death claims, but most lawsuits for emotional abuse will be based on an intentional infliction of emotional distress.
What does the law say about emotional abuse?
No criminal statutes Emotional or verbal abuse means the intentional infliction of anguish, distress, or intimidation through verbal or non-verbal acts or denial of civil rights. Generally, law enforcement does not consider verbal abuse to be criminal.
How much can you sue for emotional abuse?
Emotional distress can often qualify for both special and general damages. Because of this, pain and suffering compensation usually amounts to 2 to 5 times the total costs of medical bills (therapies, medications, etc.) and lost wages from missed work. This amount can vary significantly on a case-by-case basis.
Does emotional abuse stand up in court?
Yes, emotional abuse is recognized as a legal cause of action. In the past, emotional and psychological abuse was not readily recognized in the eyes of the law. In today's times, emotional abuse is often considered a major factor in family law cases and is reviewed closely in child abuse or elderly abuse matters.
How does emotional abuse affect a divorce?
A spouse may use emotional abuse during a divorce to influence the outcome of the divorce. For example, a spouse may manipulate the couple's children to testify against the other parent to obtain custody. Regardless of the reason, emotional abuse during a divorce can be severely harmful to the victim and the children.
Is verbal abuse part of emotional abuse?
Verbal abuse, also known as emotional abuse, is a range of words or behaviors used to manipulate, intimidate, and maintain power and control over someone. These include insults, humiliation and ridicule, the silent treatment, and attempts to scare, isolate, and control.
Is emotional abuse grounds for separation?
The law provides an abused spouse the means to obtain a court order requiring the alleged perpetrator to end their abusive treatment and stay away from the victim. Emotional abuse is often a factor cited in separation and divorce proceedings. The abuse may continue even after the marriage ends.
How do I divorce a manipulative husband?
- Plan Ahead Before Filing, and Don't Alert Your Spouse.
- Minimize Communication; Use Your Lawyer.
- Remember: Your Spouse Does Not Need to “Sign the Papers”
- When You Have to Talk, Be Professional, Neutral, and Boring.
- Gather Your Support Circle.
- Gather a Good Professional Team.
How do I deal with an uncooperative husband in a divorce?
- 1) Stay calm and focused. No matter what your spouse throws at you, always keep a level head.
- 2) Document everything.
- 3) Keep your lawyer informed.
- 4) Prioritize your children.
- 5) Get help if you need it.
- 6)Think about therapy.