http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/victimsofd_5375.mp3
With the month of October being considered domestic violence month, KSMU's Chasity Mayes gives insight on local resources involving the legal issues commonly associated with domestic violence.
“Why doesn’t she just leave?” Is a question asked by many when it comes to issues with domestic violence, but for women struggling with this situation in the Ozarks it isn’t that simple. For one thing, some abused spouses worry about how the legal system will treat them.
Some victims fear that if they leave their abusive spouse they will also lose their children. For others’ however, it is the inability to pay for legal council or not knowing what steps to take that keeps them in life threatening situations.
Jane Knabb, Director of Outreach Services for The Family Violence Center in Springfield says to better serve local victims of domestic violence the center has legal advocates available.
The Family Violence Center also offers shelter to both women and children.
Knabb says the center is always in need of all types of donations from financial aid to clothing, but the biggest need is for pro Bono legal assistance.
The Family Violence Center is available at 837-7700 or online at www.familyviolencecenter.org
For KSMU News, I'm Chasity Mayes.