Discussing abuse or violence can be a tender subject for victims in Oregon. However, knowing what options there are for protection from a current or ex-spouse can be crucial to ensuring safety in a myriad of situations. For some victims, restraining orders may be an appropriate course of action, although there are others who question why some domestic violence offenders do not face harsher punishments that may discourage such action.
The NFL has been the center of domestic violence discussion lately. One player in particular, Ray Rice, was apparently caught on camera in an act of domestic abuse. Although his then-girlfriend did go on to marry him, there are some who believe that his status as a football player got him out of any real consequences.
The reality is that his wealth and popularity may have had nothing to do with it. Oftentimes, those who are considered first-time offenders may be able to avoid jail time or other steep consequences by enrolling in an alternative counseling program. This may be an option especially for those who remain in a relationship with the victim or who are not facing charges from the individual who accused them.
As domestic violence situations can become volatile quickly, some Oregon victims may only feel safe once they have been granted restraining orders against their abuser. This may be especially true if the abuser has successfully avoided jail time or charges. Even if a victim is still married or is proceeding through a divorce, it is possible to receive protection from a restraining order.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Professional Sports and Domestic Violence: Celebrity Favoritism or Weak Domestic Violence Laws?“, Bari Zell Weinberger, Oct. 7, 2014
