I first began helping victims of domestic abuse through orders of protection in law school through Land of Lincoln Legal Services. Now as a Lead Special Prosecutor appointed by St. Louis County's Domestic Violence court, I represent the state of Missouri in prosecuting those who violate orders of protection, aside from my private practice. In this capacity, I represent the state, but my appointment was based on my expertise in the field of domestic abuse through my career.

 

Being well versed in every stage of the order of protection process, from the initial ex parte filing, to pursuing order of protection violations, I guide my clients through every stage of the process.

 

Domestic violence is not limited to those obvious cases where one spouse is beating the other spouse. It can hurt anyone regardless of background, education, age, sexual orientation, or gender. Domestic violence, which Missouri refers to as “Adult Abuse,” is a pattern of coercive control in which one person either physically harms another or arouses fear, prevents a partner from doing what they wish, or forces a partner to behave in ways they do not want to and against their will.

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Visible injuries are not the only indicators of abuse, and providing evidence of abuse is necessary for the court to intervene. Examples of abuse can include:

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• Physical

• Sexual violence

• Threats or intimidation

• Emotional abuse

• Economic deprivation

• Humiliation

• Isolation

• Intimidation