Simple assault is a crime. In fact, any act of aggression, verbal or physical, without actual contact may be criminal behavior. And so, the lines may be blurred, but losing control at home or in public may end with your incarceration. Therefore, it pays to find balance when having spirited debate. When we cross the line, and others suffer, law enforcement, at least, and potentially the courts will intervene.
Is Emotional Abuse a Crime?
Certainly, the signs of physical abuse can be obvious. On the other hand, many victims fail to report emotional abuse. Psychology today defines emotional abuse as, “a pattern of behavior in which the perpetrator insults, humiliates, and generally instills fear in an individual in order to control them.” Without a doubt, people can relieve you of your money or other favors through fear. Force is not always needed to accomplish ends. And so, it follows that some forms of emotional abuse are prosecuted as crimes. The intentional infliction of emotional distress is a crime. In Oklahoma, we must, by law, report abuse. Charges may be any of the following:
- Domestic abuse,
- Child abuse
- Elder abuse
- Stalking
Is It A Cause For Action?
Yes. Reporting emotional abuse has become a large factor in family law cases. Especially in those cases involving children or the elderly. Emotional abuse is often times coupled with physical abuse as well and therefore needs to carefully be watched. There are methods to follow to help prove that emotional abuse exists within the home or relationship, and we need to bring that evidence before the judge. If someone is causing emotional distress that leads to direct harm of an individual, it should be reported.
To discuss the possibility of legal action due to abuse of any sort, contact Charles McCaskey Law. We will help you get the representation you need in court.