I recently read an article on Lex18.com about a woman that was trying to divorce her incarcerated husband but was being forced by the courts to pay for his attorney. As it turns out, the husband received a 10 year sentence for beating her and firing a gun at her. Since he is in prison, the courts deemed him unable to pay for an attorney so it falls on her to cover the fees. Nothing like adding insult to injury. Thankfully lawmakers are working to change this rule.
Domestic violence however is a very real issue, and certainly a cause for divorce. According to the Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence (KCADV), over 26,971 domestic violence related calls were received in 2016.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, seek help. For victims of sexual assault, Kentucky offers support services for people who experience sexual violence by accompanying the individual to forensic exams and other medical appointments. They also accompany individuals to hearings, trials, and meetings related to sexual violence, including with law enforcement and to court. This may include civil, protection order, criminal, and/or school cases. There is also a 24/7 crisis line: Call 800-656-4673 (HOPE).
According to KCADV, one in four women and one in seven men have been victims of physical violence. In addition to providing a safe and secure environment for these victims, Kentucky’s domestic violence programs offer a 24-hour crisis line, legal/court advocacy, case management and safety planning as well as housing assistance and drug and alcholo services.
For more information on programs and services available to you, please visit the Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence website.
