The Impact Of Verbal Abuse On A Florida Divorce

While verbal abuse doesn’t leave physical scars or require trips to the hospital, it can have a profound impact on the emotional stability of an individual within a marriage. Examples of verbal abuse include belittling, humiliation, derogatory comments, yelling, manipulation, and intimidation. It can manifest in forms such as name-calling, constant criticism, and threats. The purpose of verbal abuse is to erode the other individual’s sense of self and self-esteem. While couples will get into arguments from time to time, it’s important to recognize that verbal abuse is a pattern of behavior that has a profound psychological impact on the victim. In this article, the Tampa, FL divorce lawyers at Faulkner Law Group, PLLC will discuss the role verbal abuse can play in a Florida divorce.

Does verbal abuse play a significant role in divorce proceedings?

Verbal abuse can play a significant role in divorce proceedings. Although there may not be any obvious scarring from verbal abuse, the legal system does recognize the impact it can have on a victim and will consider it when it comes to dissolving a marriage.

In some cases, evidence of verbal abuse can influence the outcome of divorce settlements, child custody, and spousal support (alimony). It is important to note that while verbal abuse may not always lead to direct legal consequences in a divorce (such as a restraining order), it can have a profound impact on your divorce case. Courts will consider evidence of verbal abuse when assessing the character and behavior of the parties involved, which can have a significant impact on the final terms of the divorce.

Documenting instances of verbal abuse 

There are many ways to prove verbal abuse in a courtroom. These include:

• Keeping a journal of abuse – Documenting instances of verbal abuse is key to effectively proving it in court. Keeping a detailed journal is among the best tools at your disposal to ensure you have an accurate timeline. Remember, you need to prove a pattern, so this requires documenting multiple instances of abuse. Be sure to include the date, time, context, and the exact words spoken. This journal can be used as evidence in court.

• Witness testimony and statements – Anyone who observed the verbal abuse by your spouse can be called as a witness to present testimony of the conduct before the court.

• Text messages and emails – Abusers seldom confine themselves to speech. Their conduct leaks into every communication they send. You can provide the court with text messages, emails, or social media conduct to prove that verbal abuse occurred during your marriage.

• Expert witnesses – Expert witnesses can be called to testify on the emotional impact of verbal abuse on the victim and its potential to harm the children.

Talk to a Tampa, FL Divorce Lawyer Today

 Faulkner Law Group, PLLC represents the interests of Tampa residents who are pursuing a divorce. Call our Tampa family attorneys today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing key elements of your divorce such as equitable distribution of the marital estate, alimony, child custody, and child support.