When Verbal Abuse Crosses the Line Into Domestic Violence

Domestic violence may dominate the headlines, but verbal abuse is more common and can quickly cross the line. When that happens, what may have begun as a simple argument can attract the attention of the police and lead to charges.

Verbal Abuse and Domestic Violence in Wisconsin

Verbal abuse can qualify as a crime in Wisconsin, especially if it falls under the definition of harassment. Harassment is illegal in the state and is defined as: “repeated acts that harass or intimidate another person and which serve no legitimate purpose.”

Such abuse can be considered domestic violence if the victim is threatened with pain or sexual assault or if any property was destroyed or even threatened with destruction. It is easy to see how an argument can get out of hand and result in more serious charges.

Signs of Verbal Abuse

No relationship is conflict-free and arguments are normal, but there are some indicators that an argument is more than an argument, it is abuse. Here are some warning signs:

Name-calling, condescension, and derision
Frequent yelling or screaming
Attempting to humiliate the person
Claiming the abuse was “just a joke”
Always blaming the victim for the arguments
“Kitchen sinking” or constantly throwing anything and everything into an argument
Arguments or fights occur only in total privacy
Unfounded accusations and criticism that is unconstructive
Sulking, pouting, isolating themselves or the victim, withholding from the victim
Gaslighting
Threats of violence and breaking things

Occasional arguments happen in every relationship, but if it happens over and over again or follows a certain pattern, there is a more serious problem.

Consequences of Verbal and Domestic Abuse

The first consequence of such abuses is typically having a restraining order or order of protection filed against the abuser.

Contact the Madison Criminal Defense Lawyers at Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. for Help Today

Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. is a trusted criminal defense law firm in Madison, WI, dedicated to fighting for your deserved compensation. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.

We proudly serve Dane County and its surrounding areas.

Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. – Madison
308 E Washington Ave
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 256-8356

Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Madison, WI
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 43.0772892,-89.3811534,17