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What Qualifies as Domestic Violence?

If you have been accused of domestic violence in Tennessee, you may be confused about whether or not your actions constituted such a crime. While some types of abuse may be obvious, the state's laws indicate that there are less common forms that you may not know about. 

According to The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, there are many different verbal and physical actions that can be considered domestic violence. One of the types that are not well-known is spiritual abuse. If your partner has accused you of ridiculing his or her beliefs, preventing the practice of such beliefs, or using the beliefs for manipulative purposes, the courts may consider this domestic violence. Forcing children into a religious belief that you have not agreed upon with your spouse can also be considered abuse.

You can also be accused of domestic violence in regards to your financial situation. This can be done if you refuse to allow your spouse to choose his or her own job or work altogether. If you defraud your partner of assets or steal, this can also be considered domestic abuse, as can withholding credit cards or other economic resources. 

Threatening tactics can also be considered abuse. Stalking is taken very seriously and covers a wide range of actions, including showing up suddenly when you are not expected, contacting family members or friends of your partner to find out information, or tracking his or her whereabouts. This information is intended for your education and should not be taken as legal advice.

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