Resources Available to Victims of Domestic Violence in Nashville
By Author Ben Raybin
Domestic violence may involve verbal or physical abuse. It can make victims feel worthless and incapable of coping with the stresses of daily life. Many victims of domestic violence find it difficult to trust others again, making it difficult to form lasting relationships.
If you have been a victim of domestic violence in Tennessee, you should know that you are not alone.
In 2022, there were over 62,000 cases of domestic violence reported to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, making it essential that these victims are offered easily accessible services to help piece together their lives. If you have been the target of an act of domestic violence, our Nashville victims’ rights attorneys are here to safeguard your interests.
Compassionate Counsel on Temporary Restraining Order
In Tennessee, a victim of domestic violence has the right to request a restraining order (known as an Order of Protection) to protect themselves and their children. The form can be found online on the Tennessee Courts website. If the court believes there is an immediate threat to your safety, a judge will grant a temporary restraining order (TPO). A type of injunction, a restraining order prohibits your attacker from being within your vicinity.
After the initial TPO is granted, the court will schedule a hearing within 15 days to determine whether to extend the TPO for a full year. At the end of the year, you can go back to the court to ask them to extend it further for good cause.
What You Can Recover
You also may be entitled to monetary damages. Domestic abuse can result in physical and emotional harm. An attorney can help you file a lawsuit to seek compensation for medical bills and pain and suffering.
Domestic violence encompasses much more than being injured; it can shake your sense of self. Our Nashville victims’ rights attorneys are committed to keeping victims safe while helping them get back on their feet. We will not rest until you are made aware of your legal options.
Assistance From State Organizations
Some organizations that are available to domestic violence victims include:
Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence
Also known as the Coalition, the Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence was formed in the early ’80s and received state funding for domestic violence shelters and child abuse prevention agencies in 1984. Since its formation, the Coalition has passed over 200 state laws to increase victim safety and hold domestic violence offenders accountable.
YWCA of Nashville and Middle Tennessee
Founded in 1898, the YWCA of Nashville and Middle Tennessee provides services to protect domestic violence victims and help them become self-sufficient. In 1974, the YWCA began to offer emergency services for rape victims, and in 1980, the organization opened the first domestic violence shelter in Tennessee.
Safehouse Urban Ministries
Urban Ministries provides the Safehouse Program to help domestic violence and sexual assault victims cope with the hardships they have faced. The Safehouse Program offers three different services: Residential program, non-residential program, and case management.
The residential program provides shelter for domestic violence victims and their children, while the non-residential program assigns each client a case manager who provides follow-up care to victims leaving the residential program as they transition to permanent housing. The third program, case management, helps victims secure employment, mental health services, medical care, and government benefits.
Reach Out to Our Nashville Victims’ Rights Attorneys Today
If you have been a victim of domestic violence in Tennessee, you should know that you are not alone. Many victims of domestic violence find it difficult to trust others again, making it difficult to form lasting relationships. Our victims’ rights attorneys understand the grief you have endured. We are here to answer your questions and concerns and help you make informed choices. To schedule your free, no-risk consultation, contact us online or call us.