Orange County Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers

Domestic Violence Statistics

Think domestic violence isn't a problem? Think again - statistics show a sobering picture when it comes to intimate and family-related violence. In fact, a recent study showed that nearly 850,000 men and 1.3 million women will face physical assault from an intimate family member, spouse or lover this year.

Victims and Perpetrators

Though domestic violence affects people of all races, genders, ages, sexual orientations, and faiths, statistics show a special risk for women. The U.S. Department of Justice found that 84 percent of victims of spousal abuse were female, while males comprised over 80 percent of spouse murderers and 92 percent of sexual assault perpetrators. A national survey conducted by a women's group showed that about 80 percent of rape victims know the perpetrator, with only 29 percent of all rapes committed by non-relative persons.

Societal Factors

Statistics seem to point to increased incidences of domestic violence in minority populations, with 29 percent of African-American women facing domestic violence at some point in their lives and 38 percent of Native American women experiencing the same. However, societal factors such as poverty, discrimination, lack of community support and unequal education opportunities are thought to strongly contribute to these statistics. Up to 60 percent of women receiving public assistance, such as welfare, are thought to have experienced domestic violence. In addition, domestic violence can fuel other societal problems, such as mental illness, teen pregnancy, dropout rates, and homelessness - in a survey of 44 cities, domestic violence was noted as the number one cause for homelessness.

Costs To Society

While it is widely known that domestic violence and abuse can cause injury, death, and lifelong psychological trauma, the effects on society as a whole are not as well-known. For example, the majority of women visiting emergency rooms in this country do so as a result of domestic violence; 25 percent will return after repeat victimization. It is estimated that the actual cost of domestic violence is well over $500 billion per year; this includes hospital expenses, prosecution, and lost productivity.

Underreporting and Domestic Violence

Unfortunately, domestic violence statistics can only be gleaned from reported cases of violence. For every victim who comes forward about abuse, there are hundreds and maybe thousands who are too scared to do so. Hence, underreporting tends to skew the numbers when it comes to domestic violence statistics; we may never get an accurate picture of the effects of domestic violence.

If you are the victim of domestic violence, take actions to protect your personal safety and contact a law enforcement officer as soon as possible. If you've been falsely accused of domestic violence, protect your interests - hire a respectful, competent and aggressive Tustin domestic abuse defense attorney to represent you in court. Wallin & Klarich has an established track record and the resources you need to protect your freedoms. Call today for a free phone consultation on your domestic violence case.

At Wallin & Klarich, we approach every case with the belief that the person we're defending could easily be one of our own family members. We've seen firsthand how stressful legal matters can be for our clients and their loved ones. We are committed to being available to our clients at all times -- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you or someone you love is facing domestic violence charges in Southern California, you should call Wallin & Klarich today for a free evaluation of your case. Call 1-888-280-6806 or fill out our online consultation form to get in contact with a legal professional today. We will be there when you call.