Tips From Our Vancouver Divorce Lawyers for Leaving an Abusive Relationship

Sep 20

We recognize that this blog may be triggering for some readers as some of the content may disturbing. We ask that you please prepare yourself emotionally before reading on.

What is Family Violence?

The definition under the Family Law Act for “Family Violence” is the following:

“Family Violence” includes, with or without an intent to harm a family member,

(a) physical abuse of a family member, including forced confinement or deprivation of the necessities of life, but not including the use of reasonable force to protect oneself or others from harm,

(b) sexual abuse of a family member,

(d) psychological or emotional abuse of a family member, including

(i) intimidation, harassment, coercion or threats, including threats respecting other persons, pets or property,

(ii) unreasonable restrictions on, or prevention of, a family member's financial or personal autonomy,

(iii) stalking or following of the family member,

(iv) intentional damage to property,

(e) in the case of a child, direct or indirect exposure to family violence.

What Are Examples of Physical Abuse?

(a) pushing, shoving, hitting, slapping, kicking;

(b) pinching, punching;

(d) stabbing, cutting;

(e) throwing objects;

(f) burning;

(g) locking someone in a room, or tying them up.

What Are Examples of Sexual Abuse?

(a) forced sexual activity;

(b) touching without consent;

What Are Examples of Emotional Abuse?

(a) controlling behaviour;

(b) threatening;

(d) insulting;

(e) criticizing;

(f) isolating;

(g) damaging property;

(h) hurting pets.

What Are Examples of Financial Abuse?

(a) taking money without permission;

(b) preventing a partner from working or making an income;

Safety Planning and Tips

Abusive relationships are difficult, especially when children are involved. Here are some tips for safety planning:

(a) learn to recognize red flags;

(b) be ready to leave – if you are in danger, call the police;

(c) have a good support group – start counselling, or get help from other family services, let your friends and family know what you are planning to do, the more support you have through the process the better, make sure you have a safe place to stay if you leave;

(d) have an emergency cash fund – if your partner was financially abusive, you may experience drastic changes once you leave the relationship, having enough to take care of you and your children, as well as legal fees, would be helpful.

Family violence is common and occurs at every age, race, gender, income level and socio-economic status – remove the shame and ask for help. If you are in an abusive relationship, whether it be physical, emotional or financial, we encourage you to book a consultation to speak to one of our experienced family law lawyers and read about other organizations that may be able to help.

Want to learn more? Please contact us for a consultation.

The material provided in this blog is for general information and education purposes only and does not contain, and should not be construed as containing, legal advice applicable to a particular set of facts. If you require legal advice, please contact us for a consultation with one of our experienced family law lawyers.

Abby Pang

Abby is a lawyer and loving mother of two children. She is an advocate for healthy families and children. She has turned her energy towards supporting families, by providing guidance and helping families navigate through the legal system, while empowering them to have a voice throughout the process.

Abby Pang’s journey began in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Subsequently, her family moved to the east side of Vancouver, before moving to Richmond, where she spent most of her childhood. Her father was a refugee who came to Canada in 1970, and from him she learned the meaning of grit.

In her youth, Abby experienced a breakdown in her family unit which resulted in divorce. She understands that marital breakdowns and divorces can be complicated, but also devastating. She also understands there are alternative options and ways to mitigate the damaging effects of the process.

Abby earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of British Columbia, studying psychology and family studies. She earned a law degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, exchange program through the Hong Kong University. In 2008, she returned to British Columbia to work in a large law office while completing her National Certificate of Accreditation. She then completed her articles in a boutique law firm in Vancouver. She was called to the British Columbia bar in 2012.

Abby has appeared in Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. She deals with personal injury claims, sexual assault (civil) claims, and family law matters: In addition to her court experience, Abby takes a “family first” approach and is resolution-focused. She is registered through the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

As a lawyer, Abby Pang’s community involvement included volunteer work with the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers and the Canadian Bar Association Women Lawyers’ Forum. As well, she had the opportunity to assist at Rise Women’s Legal Center and Battered Women’s Support Services through volunteering with Amici Curiae Friends of Court.

Abby is the recipient of A Woman of Worth Leader of the Year Award 2023 for her outstanding achievements in strengthening her community/organization through innovative approaches to resolving challenges and inspiring meaningful change. She has been recognized nationally as a nominee of the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards 2023, which honours extraordinary women leaders and businesses.

In her personal time, Abby enjoys snowboarding, bike riding, and spending time with her family.

https://www.illumalaw.com/team

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