According to the Domestic Violence Act No. 116 of 1998 it is:
If these forms of abuse are happening to you or to anyone you know, you can apply for a protection order. A domestic violence protection order is a document issued by the court which prevents the abuser from:
Physical Abuse may include:
Emotional, Verbal and Psychological Abuse may include:
Economic Abuse may include:
Intimidation could be:
Harassment may include:
Stalking means, for example:
Damage to Property may include acts of:
Unauthorised Entry into the Victim’s Residence may include:
Both men and women can be guilty of, and be victims of domestic violence.
A better question is, “Why does the abuser choose to abuse?” Victims often find it difficult to leave due to emotional, financial, legal or social pressures.
Do abusers show any potential warning signs?
2019 POWA (People Opposing Women Abuse), https://www.powa.co.za/POWA/
If you feel that you are a victim of any act of domestic violence as listed above, approach the local Magistrate Court and request assistance in bringing an application for a Protection Order. The Clerk of the Court will assist you to complete the necessary forms and take you before a Magistrate who will determine whether to grant the Order or not. The details of service providers who can give advice and help you in this regard are provided.
Remember that in emergencies, this service is available 24 hours a day.
The Clerk of the Court will assist you in completing the necessary forms and taking you before a Magistrate.
Approach the Court nearest to where you live or work. If you were forced to leave your place of residence as a result of the violence and are living elsewhere temporarily, you may approach the Court closest to your temporary residence.
Leaving an abusive relationship can seem overwhelming and often dangerous. You may have doubts or fears or just feel overwhelmed at the thought of leaving but consider the following as you make your decision:
2019 Women’s Health; Leaving an abusive relationshsip
Many people can help you think about your options to leave an abusive relationship safely. It might be unsafe if an abusive partner finds out you’re thinking about leaving. Try to talk only to people who will not tell the abuser about your plans:
2019 Women’s Health; Leaving an abusive relationshsip
Even if you don’t leave right away, creating a safety plan can help you know what to do if your partner abuses you again. It can help you be more independent when you leave.
Your safety plan will help you be prepared:
2019 Women’s Health; Leaving an abusive relationshsip
When you leave an abuser, the most important thing is your life and safety as well as your children’s. If you are able to plan ahead, it will help you to have important information with you, in addition to money, clothing, medicine, and other basic items.
You may also want to take photos of any valuable assets in the home, if any family heirlooms like jewelry, take them with you or put them in a safe place before you leave. If you have a joint bank account, consider opening your own account and storing money there. Any adult has the right to open their own bank account, even if they are married or dependent on another person.
Learn more about ending the silence.