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Domestic Violence Support
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What is Dometic Violence?
Women's Resource Center Is Ready to Help
How To Make Yourself a Safety Plan
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What is Dometic Violence?
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Domestic violence cases are very prevalent not only in Charlevoix County but in all counties across the State of Michigan. Domestic violence has been defined as "a learned pattern of physical, verbal, sexual and/or emotional behaviors in which one person in a relationship uses force and intimidation to dominate or control the other person." Domestic violence occurs between people who are married, not married, together, separated or dating. It occurs between couples of all ages and different economic/social classes.
Charlevoix County aggressively pursues domestic violence cases with or without the cooperation of the victim. Domestic violence cases unlike any other type of criminal case normally have reluctant victims. This is true for a variety of reasons. Studies have consistently shown that by aggressively prosecuting perpetrators of domestic violence and not allowing victims to decide whether the case goes forward we send the message to the perpetrators that their behavior is CRIMINAL. It also makes it clear that it is the prosecutor who decides if the case goes to trial, not the victim. Many domestic violence perpetrators attempt to extend their control over the victim into the court case, putting pressure on the victim to "drop" their case.
If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your children. Call the Women's Resource Center crisis line 24 hours a day for emergency assistance.
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Women's Resource Center Is Ready to Help
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Women's Resource Center
Petoskey Office
Their crisis line is available 24 hours a day for emergency assistance.
Crisis Line: 616 347-0082
Toll Free: 800 275-1995
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How To Make Yourself a Safety Plan
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Work out signals with neighbors to call the police.
Ask a friend or relative to stay with you if you believe you are in danger.
Decide ahead of time where you can go and what to take with you if you must leave in a hurry. For example, money, important documents, a change of clothes, car keys, etc.
Report assaults and/or stalking behavior to police.
Another option now available to victim's of stalking and/or domestic violence is what is now known as a Personal Protection Order (PPO). This is a court order that is enforceable by any police officer throughout the State of Michigan.
Remember, you are not alone, you are not to blame and you can get help.
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This page last updated on 2/14/2005.
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