Domestic violence is destructive regardless of the time of year. However, the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is when calls to the police regarding incidents of domestic violence significantly increase.
We all know that the holidays can be a stressful time of year in addition to being a joyous one. But, there is no good excuse for abuse or violence. There is no valid excuse for allowing this type of behavior to occur.
Here are just some of the pathetic excuses we commonly hear to justify violence over the holidays:
I was extremely stressed.
There is no doubt that the holidays can be rather stressful. There is the financial pressure of meeting everyone’s expectations with regard to gifts. Visiting relatives, particularly those with whom you don’t get along, can send your blood pressure soaring. But, that is not a good enough excuse for physically or emotionally abusing a partner.
There are a number of ways in which individuals can relieve their stress including meditation and deep breathing exercises. If you find yourself getting into an intense conversation with someone, walk away before the situation escalates.
I had been drinking.
It is a common misunderstanding that men who physically abuse their partners are extremely intoxicated or out of control. In spite of the fact that alcohol or drugs could trigger abuse, it is a pathetic excuse.
It is an excuse that is commonly used during the holidays when alcohol consumption is common at parties and gatherings. Domestic violence experts will tell you that such acts are often viewed as a matter of choice and they are usually performed in a safe setting (for the perpetrator) at a time of his choosing.
If you are someone who loses control around alcohol, it is a good idea to steer clear of consuming alcohol or limit consumption, particularly during the holidays, when stress levels can run high. If you suspect you are addicted to alcohol, consider joining a program such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
He/she provoked me.
This is an excuse we hear not just during the holidays but during all times of the year. When it comes to domestic violence, while women are most often the victims, men are also sometimes on the receiving end.
Regardless of the victim’s gender, the excuse that you responded physically because your partner or spouse “provoked” you is an excuse that will not be admissible in court.
If You Have Been Charged
Please remember that the alleged victim doesn’t have to be severely injured or even suffer an injury in order to press charges against you. Even a perceived physical threat could result in such a charge.
However, a domestic violence charge can have serious consequences for you including being unable to live with your family or see your children. You may even lose custody of your children.
As domestic violence defense lawyers, we understand that not all of these charges are justified or even true. We have helped a number of our clients secure get acquitted of domestic violence charges based on facts and evidence. If you are facing a domestic violence or domestic abuse charge, contact us to find out how we can help you.