Domestic Violence

In Anchorage and throughout south central Alaska, attorney Allen M. Bailey of the Law Offices of Allen M. Bailey works to assure the safety, welfare and legal rights of women and children who have been victims of domestic violence or are at risk of being abused. He has also assisted many men who were victims of family violence.

Domestic violence is a very real problem in Alaska. In fact, the incidence of domestic violence in Alaska is among the highest in the nation: rape occurs at 2.5 times the national average; child sexual assault is almost 6 times the national average; and Alaska has the highest rate per capita of men murdering women. About 6,000 cases of domestic violence were reported in 2005, and the 2010 Alaska Victimization Survey estimates that 47.6% of Alaska women are victims of threats or physical violence by their intimate partner during their lifetime; in Bush areas of the state, the rates of violence and sexual assault are much higher.

If you have been a Victim of Domestic Violence

If you need emergency assistance, call 911 for the police, or contact the Abused Women's Aid in Crisis (AWAIC) shelter at their 24-hour hotline at 907-272-0100. As soon as you are safe, the next step is to apply to the court for a domestic violence protective order. A protective order is a powerful tool that can accomplish many things. It can order the abuser to stay away from you and not have any contact you. This can include requiring the abuser to move out of the house, if you are currently living with the person.

An initial protective order is only temporary in nature. In order to have a long-term order put into place, you will need to go to court for a hearing and convince the judge that a long-term order is necessary. The abuser will also have an opportunity to appear at the hearing as well and to present testimony or evidence as to why a long-term order should not be granted.

If you have a child or children with the abuser, you may be able to obtain a temporary child custody order, as well as child support. The judge can make temporary child custody orders or long-term orders for up to a year as part of the domestic violence protective order process, even if you are not currently seeking a divorce from the perpetrator.

Seek Experienced Legal Representation

Every domestic violence case is unique, and Anchorage attorney Allen Bailey has the experience and expertise to understand the issues involved and know how to deal with them properly. If you have been the victim of domestic violence or believe you are at risk of abuse, contact the Law Offices of Allen M. Bailey for immediate assistance.