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How Does Domestic Violence Affect a Divorce Case in Texas?

There are dozens of reasons why a couple may choose to get divorced. One of the most common causes is the presence of domestic violence, also known as family violence. Most people assume domestic violence only occurs as physical violence, but it can include emotional and mental distress. It affects many people regardless of their age, gender, race, religion, or financial status. The signs of domestic violence often go deeper than its physical aspects. It is not uncommon for spouses who abuse their partners to manipulate them into not wanting to leave their relationship by using blackmail, gaslighting, and other psychological tactics to control their partner.

Getting Out of a Violent Marriage

Choosing to leave your marriage is never easy. It’s even harder when you are a victim of spousal abuse and may be isolated from your family and friends, psychologically broken down, have limited financial control, and have been physically threatened. If you’re contemplating whether to stay or leave, you may be experiencing mixed feelings. You might be hoping that your situation will change, or you are concerned about how your spouse may react when they find out you’re trying to leave. You might even blame yourself for the abuse or feel weak and embarrassed because you’ve stuck around despite it. It is easy to get trapped by confusion, guilt, or self-blame, but at the end of the day, the most important thing is your safety.

What is Considered Harassment During Divorce?

Harassment can appear in many forms when an abuser intentionally causes emotional harm to a victim. The abuser may call the victim to abuse them verbally, threaten to hurt the victim or their loved ones, post derogatory claims about them on social media, or otherwise criticize them repeatedly. Your spouse may also commit child abuse by behaving inappropriately — threatening, stalking, or even assaulting you and your family. Ongoing abusive behaviors during a divorce may be considered harassment.

Filing a Protective Order

While a divorce formally ends a marriage, it doesn’t require former spouses to stay away from each other. After filing for a divorce, an abused partner should also ask for a temporary or permanent protective order to ensure everyone’s safety. The court may issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) or other similar emergency protections to provide protection for you and your family against an abusive ex. These orders may not allow your spouse to be within a certain distance of you or may deny all contact with you and the children. Contact one of our Dallas divorce attorneys for assistance.

Domestic Violence Resources

If your divorce involves domestic violence, it’s vital to proceed cautiously. You must take care of your family by asking for help and guidance when you need it. If something doesn’t feel right, follow your gut. If you are concerned about your or your children’s safety, don’t hesitate to call upon the many available resources, including law enforcement. Taking the step of leaving an abusive spouse can be tricky, but you may come out on the other side having made significant progress towards a better life for yourself and those you love.

If you have been a victim of domestic violence or feel that you or your children are not safe, get help immediately by calling one of the organizations listed below.

  • National Domestic Violence 24-Hour Hotline, 800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Crime Victims, 888-343-4414
  • Texas Advocacy Project, 800-374-HOPE
  • Legal Aid for Survivors of Sexual Assault, 844-303-7233
  • In an emergency, call 911.

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From the bottom of my heart, I cannot recommend Balekian Hayes enough. As a father fighting to protect his daughters and secure meaningful protections for our future, I needed more than legal representation — I needed a team that understood what was truly at stake. This firm didn’t just manage my case; they stood beside me while I fought for my children with passion, discipline, and faith. They recognized my effort to always put my girls first and reinforced that commitment at every turn.

Lisa at reception is the heartbeat of this firm. From the very first call, she treated me with sincerity and compassion. On days when I felt overwhelmed or discouraged, Lisa gently reminded me that my faith was evidence and that trials are temporary. She consistently reassured me that everything would work out the way it was meant to. She addressed every concern directly or made sure someone did. Her kindness grounded me more than she probably realizes. She sets the culture — patient, understanding, and steady.

Bryn is one of the hardest working professionals I have ever encountered. She was my go-to throughout the case and handled every detail with empathy, precision, and follow-through. What stood out most was how she consistently reinforced that I was a great father. When doubt crept in, Bryn reminded me that my effort to secure protections for my daughters mattered deeply. She genuinely cared about the outcome, not just legally but personally. Her calm strength made some of the hardest moments feel manageable.

And then there is Emory. Emory is exceptional. Her knowledge and strategic leadership transformed our case and ultimately led to a strong victory for my family. But what separates her is her empathy. She saw my pain. She recognized the weight I was carrying as a father trying to do everything right. On days when I questioned whether I was doing enough, Emory consistently reminded me that I was doing amazing — even when I didn’t feel like my best self. She pointed out the victories I had already achieved before she and her team ever stepped in. That perspective restored my confidence. “Relax — we’ve got this,” she would say, these struggles may feel like loses right now, but soon they will be your victories— and she meant it. She fought fiercely for the protections my daughters deserved while also protecting me emotionally through the process.

This firm was the greatest blessing of my year. To the fathers out there: I know how heavy this road can feel. But when you have Balekian Hayes in your corner, the burden truly lifts. They honor your role. They fight for your family. They believe in you when you need it most.

Personally, I know what it feels like to lie awake at night wondering if you’re doing enough… if you’re going to protect your children… if the system will truly see your heart. I lived it. As a father fighting for my daughters and the protections they deserve, I needed more than legal advice — I needed a team that understood what was truly at stake. From day one, Balekian Hayes saw my passion, my effort, and my unwavering commitment to put my girls first. They didn’t just represent me or defend me in court — they strengthened me as a father. Without hesitation, I can say this firm was the greatest blessing of my year.

To my team I am beyond thankful for your effort, thank you all so much for these blessings we get to live.

If you’re praying for help — this is your sign. Make the call.

John

“Dedicated lawyers who will work hard and fight for you. Kris and Justin went above and beyond in my case. A big thanks to both of them. I would not hesitate to recommend.”

Dustin

“Balekian Hayes is the best law firm I’ve ever had the pleasure of doing business with. Very happy with everything!”

Travis

“I had a fantastic experience with Balekian Hayes law firm and highly recommend them. I initially met with Kris in 2007 regarding a potential divorce. She immediately knew what an emotionally challenging and stressful time this was going to be for me and didn’t want me to be alone during this journey. She helped me plan effectively to protect myself, my financial future, and my time with my kids. I interviewed several attorneys prior to meeting her, but none had the compassion and law knowledge combination that she and her team did. Hiring her was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Elizabeth

“Ms. Hayes was not only an excellent attorney throughout the duration of my case, but counseled me through some very tough financial decisions and marital obstacles outside of litigation. We forged a friendship that will last well beyond our professional relationship and I was blessed to have her on my side.”

Previous Client

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Ms. Balekian Hayes is a bulldog who fights for what’s best for the child.”

– Krystal