Getting a divorce in Fort Worth: Part 1

Domestic violence issues can be complicated, must be addressed quickly

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Also see:

• Getting a Divorce in Fort Worth: Part 2
• Divorce in Texas
• Filing for a collaborative divorce in Texas
• Getting a divorce in Dallas
• Getting a divorce in Houston
• Getting a divorce in San Antonio

As you can see from other Texas-related articles, experts agree that the majority of people getting a divorce should avail themselves of the services of an experienced, trained attorney. That being said, you should also consider your emotional, psychological and spiritual needs; many people benefit from professional counseling during–and after–such a grief-filled event.

Experts also agree that if domestic violence is a facet of the relationship, the domestic violence needs to be addressed, first thing.

Unfortunately, as written, domestic violence seems to include only violence against women. Here’s an excerpt from Tarrant County’s “CSCD Programs and Services: Domestic Violence Intervention Program,” emphasis added:

The Domestic Violence Intervention Program which targets domestic violence, or violence between intimate partners is funded by a grant from the Criminal Justice Division of the Governor’s office. Selected defendants charged with Domestic Violence (violence against women) in Tarrant County Criminal Court No. 5 are placed into the Pre-Trial Diversion Court which monitors the defendant’s progress in a non-adversarial manner, and is in lieu of traditional case processing.

Furthermore:

This court is unique because it combines the judicial function with case management, victim assistance, and an assessment process. The project includes services specifically dedicated to preventing, identifying, and responding to violent crimes against women as they relate to domestic violence.

What this suggests is that if domestic violence is present–or alleged–both parties need a lawyer as soon as possible. The language is not so cut-and-dried for people who live in public housing, but notice that it is possible to be evicted even if you are the victim of domestic abuse:

The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2005 (VAWA) ensures that:

You (man, woman or child) cannot be denied a housing voucher solely because you are or have been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking.

A landlord cannot refuse to rent to you solely because you are or have been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking.

Your landlord cannot evict you from your unit on the basis of criminal activity directly relating to domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking against you, unless your landlord can show there is an actual and imminent threat to the safety of other tenants if you are not evicted.

If any of these apply to your situation, you may be eligible for help from Legal Aid of Northwest Texas.

Next: Getting a divorce in Fort Worth: Part 2.

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