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Is Domestic Violence More Common During the Holiday Season?
The holiday season is a time when families can come together to celebrate and create lasting memories. However, for some people and families, the holidays can be a time of increased stress and tension. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to an increase in domestic violence incidents. Those who have been accused of domestic violence may face arrests and prosecution, and they will need to understand what steps they can take to address these issues and defend against criminal charges. An attorney who has experience defending clients against sensitive crimes related to accusations of domestic battery or domestic abuse can provide invaluable legal help in these situations, ensuring that a person can protect their rights as they defend against a conviction.
There are multiple reasons why domestic violence incidents may increase during the holidays, including:
The Impact of Stress
During the holiday season, many people experience added stress. The pressure to create a perfect holiday experience can be overwhelming for some, and the financial strain of buying gifts or hosting gatherings can also add to a person’s stress levels. Family dynamics may also play a role in increased tensions during this time of year. Family members who have strained relationships or unresolved conflicts may find themselves forced into close proximity with one another during holiday gatherings. All these factors combined can create a volatile environment where tempers may flare more easily, and conflicts can escalate quickly.
Increased Alcohol Consumption
Substance use is another contributing factor to higher rates of domestic violence during the holidays. Many people indulge in alcoholic beverages at parties and social events throughout the season. While alcohol itself does not cause domestic violence, it can lower a person's inhibitions and impair their judgment, leading to more aggressive behavior. The use of alcohol or other substances to cope with the added stress of the holiday season may increase the likelihood of incidents involving accusations of domestic violence.
Social Isolation
During the holiday season, people are encouraged to spend time with their loved ones. However, not everyone has strong support systems or healthy relationships with family members or friends. Some people may feel isolated or lonely during this time of year due to distance from loved ones, estrangement from family members, or loss of significant others. This sense of isolation can intensify feelings of depression, anxiety, and frustration, which can contribute to an increase in domestic violence incidents.
Addressing Domestic Violence Charges
When alleged incidents of domestic violence are reported to the police, officers may come to a family’s home and take whatever steps they deem necessary to address the situation. In many cases, officers are required to arrest the person who they believe is the “predominant aggressor” in a domestic violence incident. If, after questioning the people involved in an incident and any witnesses, officers believe that one person has engaged in actions that put their family members at risk of harm, they may take the person into custody and charge them with domestic battery or other related crimes.
Following an arrest on domestic violence charges, a person will typically be prohibited from contacting the alleged victim of domestic violence for 72 hours. This means that a person who has been accused of domestic violence may not be allowed to return to their home or contact their spouse or other family members. However, this restriction can be lifted if the alleged victim signs a written waiver. Violating a no-contact prohibition can result in additional criminal charges on top of any charges related to the incident of alleged domestic violence.
Contact Our Milwaukee, WI Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers
If you have been accused of domestic violence, arrested following a family dispute, or charged with domestic battery during the holiday season, you can protect your rights and determine your options for defense by working with an experienced lawyer. At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, our Milwaukee domestic battery defense attorneys can help you determine the best steps to take to defend against criminal charges and address any other issues related to a domestic violence arrest. Contact us at 414-271-1440 to schedule a consultation today.
