Verbal abuse qualifies as domestic abuse if it involves sincere threats of harm against a partner or close relative, or any other form of control. Here’s how to tell if your husband is being verbally abusive.
What is domestic abuse?
Abuse can take on many different forms, including:
- Causes or attempts to cause injury through physical violence
- Sexual assault or violence
- Molestation
- Threats of serious physical injury
- Battery (assault using force), or otherwise striking an individual
- Stalking
- Harassment
- Disturbance of peace, which refers to any behavior that intentionally destroys an individual’s emotional wellbeing. This includes conduct such as coercive control, which is a deliberate pattern of behavior that is meant to deprive an individual of their free will.
Who can commit domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is legally defined as abuse committed by one’s:
- Married or legal domestic partner
- A former spouse (through divorce or legal separation)
- A romantic partner or former romantic partner
- Romantic partners who live together
- Close relatives (parents, children, siblings, grandparents, etc.)
What is verbal abuse?
In California, domestic abuse does not have to be physical. It can also be verbal, emotional, and psychological. Verbal abuse is considered domestic abuse if it falls under the aforementioned categories. Verbal abuse must be a threat that is perceived as legitimate by the individual receiving the threat. For example, threatening to kill someone for not completing a task qualifies as verbal abuse and can result in a charge of domestic violence. Other actions including deliberate attempts to embarrass an individual, isolate them from their relationships, or deprive them of personal liberty can also qualify as emotional abuse.
Is my husband verbally abusing me?
There are several warning signs to tell if someone is being verbally abused. If you answer yes to any of the questions below, it is highly recommended that you hire a family lawyer to discuss your options.
1. Has your husband ever willfully threatened to cause bodily injury or death to you in the event that you did not do something he asked?
2. Has your husband ever willfully threatened to cause bodily injury or death to someone close to you, in the event that you did not do something he asked?
3. Has your husband ever communicated a threat to cause bodily harm or death to you through another person?
4. Has your husband ever gotten angry to the point where you fear for yourself or your personal safety, even without directly stating the threat?
5, Has your husband ever willfully threatened to cause bodily injury or death to you or a person close to you in messages, email, or any other non-verbal form of communication?
6, Has your husband ever yelled, insulted, or belittled you in such a way that made you feel threatened or inadequate?
7. Does your husband make decisions for you that deprive you of your free will, and in such a way that you are afraid for your personal safety if you do not comply?
8. Has your husband ever deliberately humiliated you in front of other people?
9. Has your husband ever threatened to harm himself in order to manipulate you into complying with a demand?
Verbal abuse may not leave physical marks, but it is a serious form of domestic violence that can result in a criminal charge. If you are ready to take the next steps in protecting yourself and/or your loved ones, an experienced family lawyer can help you to navigate the path toward freedom.
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If you think your husband is verbally abusive, get your free consultation with one of our California domestic violence attorneys today!