Family violence protective order not always enough in Texas

On Behalf of | Jun 15, 2011 | Firm News

Domestic violence is unfortunately common. A growing number of people who suffer domestic violence are reaching out for help. The typical protocol for handling domestic violence cases includes a misdemeanor arrest and filing a family violence protective order. Unfortunately, the death of a Texas woman in 2009 proves that these measures aren’t always sufficient.

The Texas woman was shot by her husband in the middle of a grocery store. The woman, who was a United States soldier, and her 23-year-old husband got into a public argument while shopping. The man subsequently shot his wife and then turned the gun on himself.

Law enforcement documents prove that the woman was one of 111 women who died as a result of domestic violence that year. Officials in Texas believe that number is far too high and have begun to take measures to change things. Members of the Texas Council on Family Violence have compiled a manual for keeping firearms out of domestic violence situations. According to advocates of the project, waiting until after an aggressor is convicted of domestic violence is too late to remove firearms.

Texas officials are working on a number of new protocols for managing domestic violence cases. As always, victims of domestic violence can always seek advice and aid from trusted individuals. The law will readily provide victims with a family violence protective order, as well as information on safe places to turn when going home seems too dangerous. Texas law enforcement officials, family law attorneys and advocates are all working together to protect victims of domestic violence.

Source: Kfoxtv.com, El Paso Judge Fights Back Against Domestic Violence, Stephanie Guadian, 13 Jun, 2011

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