When most people think of domestic abuse, they imagine physical violence—visible bruises and overt aggression. However, not all forms of abuse leave physical marks. Coercive control, a pattern of non-physical abuse designed to dominate, manipulate, and isolate, is equally harmful. In recent years, California has made strides in recognizing coercive control as a legitimate form of domestic abuse, reflecting the growing understanding of its devastating impact on victims.
What is Coercive Control?
Coercive control refers to a range of behaviors that an abuser uses to maintain power over their victim. These actions may not involve physical harm but are deeply psychological and emotional, leaving the victim feeling trapped, powerless, and dependent.
Examples of coercive control include:
- Isolation: Restricting the victim’s contact with family, friends, or support networks.
- Financial Control: Controlling or restricting access to money or employment opportunities, leaving the victim financially dependent.
- Monitoring: Tracking the victim’s movements, communication, or activities through technology or constant surveillance.
- Threats and Intimidation: Using fear—threats of harm, deportation, or losing custody of children—to exert control.
- Deprivation of Basic Needs: Denying access to food, medical care, or other necessities to maintain dominance.
This type of abuse is insidious and can slowly erode a victim’s independence, self-esteem, and sense of safety.
How California Law Recognizes Coercive Control
California took a significant step forward in 2020 by recognizing coercive control as a form of domestic abuse under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA). This recognition means that victims of coercive control can now seek legal protections, such as restraining orders, even if there hasn’t been physical violence.
Key aspects of the law include:
- Broad Definition of Abuse: Coercive control behaviors—such as isolating a victim or threatening harm—are now explicitly recognized as abusive.
- Impact on Custody Cases: In child custody disputes, courts consider coercive control as a factor when determining the best interests of the child. Abusive behaviors that jeopardize the child’s safety or well-being are taken into account.
- Restraining Orders: Victims can seek protection from courts based on evidence of coercive control, even if physical violence has not occurred.
The Importance of Recognizing Coercive Control
The recognition of coercive control is a game-changer for victims who have felt trapped in relationships where manipulation and domination overshadow their lives. Here’s why it matters:
- Validation of Victims’ Experiences: Many victims of coercive control struggle to articulate their abuse because it doesn’t involve physical violence. The law gives their experiences legitimacy.
- Enhanced Protections: Victims now have more robust legal options to escape abusive relationships without needing to prove physical harm.
- Focus on Prevention: By acknowledging non-physical abuse, California law aims to intervene earlier, preventing coercive control from escalating into physical violence.
What to Do If You’re Experiencing Coercive Control
If you believe you’re a victim of coercive control, it’s crucial to know that help is available. Here are steps you can take:
- Document the Abuse: Keep a record of incidents, including texts, emails, and other evidence of controlling behaviors.
- Seek Support: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or a domestic violence support organization.
- Consult a Family Law Attorney: A skilled attorney can help you understand your legal rights and assist with obtaining restraining orders or initiating custody changes.
- Develop a Safety Plan: Work with professionals to create a plan for leaving the relationship safely if needed.
How Meshi Legal Can Help
At Meshi Legal, we understand the devastating effects of coercive control and are committed to helping victims reclaim their independence. Our experienced family law attorneys provide compassionate support and expert guidance for:
- Filing restraining orders.
- Modifying custody arrangements to ensure safety.
- Navigating the complexities of California’s domestic violence laws.
You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to help you take the first step toward safety and freedom.
