On September 29, 2022, McGill Law was honored with the Law Firm Partner Equal Justice Award at the Friends of Legal Aid of Nebraska luncheon. Legal Aid’s Equal Justice Awards recognize partners in the Nebraska community who have made significant contributions towards equal justice for all regardless of income. McGill Law is proud to be a part of a community that supports this goal.

During the event, Rachel Louise Snyder spoke about Domestic Violence and how the signs can be missed by others outside of the relationship. Rachel is the author of “No Visible Bruises: What We Don’t Know About Domestic Violence Can Kill Us,” an investigation of the true scope of domestic violence. In her book, she recounts interviews with survivors, families of victims, law enforcement, and those taking the steps to change laws across the country. Throughout her research, Rachel shared how most states are lacking in ways to help survivors overcome this abuse, not only in the law, but in resources. This includes resources for perpetrators who need treatment.

For McGill Law, this was an important transition into the new month as October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Starting in October 1987, Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a way to connect and unite individuals and organizations working on domestic violence issues while raising awareness for those issues. 

While many people view domestic violence as physical abuse, it also happens through emotional, sexual, or financial ways. Domestic violence occurs when an individual uses power and control over their intimate partner, including control through other adults, children, and pets.

One of the best ways we can bring attention to domestic violence is to be educated on the signs that someone may be experiencing abuse. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, potential warning signs include, but are not limited to:

·         public insults from a partner

·         extreme jealousy

·         isolation

·         unexplained marks or injuries

·         constant worry about making a partner angry

·         depression and/or anxiety

·         unable to make personal decisions

·         intimidation from a partner

Should someone reach out and disclose abuse, the most important things a supporter can do is listen to and believe the survivor. By supporting them in a private setting, not pressuring them to share more than they are comfortable, and avoiding placing blame, shame, or guilt, the support is building a safe space for the survivor.

Making the decision to leave a relationship where domestic violence is prevalent is not always an easy one. Fear, shame, intimidation, low self-esteem, and a lack of resources are just a few of the reasons why someone may choose to stay. If someone you know decides to stay, it is important to continue to be supportive. It is not unusual for the time when someone leaves to be the most dangerous period of time for survivors. Therefore, survivors may want to identify trustworthy supports and make a safety plan, if possible. A safety plan can include having a “travel bag” packed and hidden in case of an emergency while exploring legal options.

In Nebraska, there are three types of protection orders that can help those looking for legal support. The first is a Domestic Abuse Protection Order. This is best suited for those who have been in a close relationship (like a partner or spouse). It is granted because someone attempted, threatened, caused bodily injury, or intimidated the other person by credible threat.

The second type of protection order is a Harassment Protection Order. This requires multiple telephone or personal contacts that seriously terrify, threaten, or intimidate the victim that serve no legitimate purpose. One does not need to have a previous relationship with the opposing party to receive this type of protection order.

The last is a Sexual Assault Protection Order. This is granted because someone subjected or attempted to subject the other person to sexual contact or sexual penetration without consent.

If you or someone you know is ready to take the next step and need assistance with filing a protection order, starting the divorce process, and/or advocating for child custody, contact us at 402-548-5418. We’re here for you.

McGill Law is an affiliate member of the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence. The Coalition’s mission is to “enhance safety and justice by changing the beliefs and behaviors and dismantling the systems that perpetuate sexual and domestic violence, human trafficking, stalking, and other forms of violence.”   

For other resources in Nebraska, you can contact: 

Women’s Center for Advancement: 402-345-6555

Legal Aid of Nebraska:  Omaha (402-348-1069) and Lincoln (402-435-2161)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788