Chicago Attorney Specializing in Domestic Violence, Martin Dolan, Fights for Victims’ Protection and Offers Tips for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Chicago, IL – One in every four women is beaten or raped by a partner during adulthood and three women are killed each day by a current or former intimate partner according to National Network to End Domestic Violence. In an effort to call attention to this grave issue, and reach out to victims and advocates, October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Chicago attorney Martin Dolan of Dolan Legal is a defense attorney with over 19 years experience. Dolan is currently fighting a district court decision that dismissed a claim that Chicago police violated the right to equal protection by failing to enforce the protective order of Mercedes McCauley against her ex-boyfriend, who later shot and killed her. Dolan is filing an appeal to the decision, fighting to have victims of domestic abuse recognized as a class of people who deserve higher protection under the law

“Domestic violence is serious issue that deserves heightened attention, which can be seen in the case of Mercedes McCauley” Dolan explains. “I am dedicated to the issue and hope that these tips and my work with this case will help to prevent and protect victims of domestic violence.”

Dolan offers these signs of domestic violence and safety tips for those in an abusive relationship:

WARNING SIGNS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE - Your partner:

· Has unpredictable temper

· Makes threats and/or hurts you

· Sees you as a sex object

· Threatens to commit suicide if you leave

· Acts overly possessive and/or controlling

· Keeps you away from family or friends

RED FLAGS - Tactics used by an abuser include:

· Dominance

· Humiliation

· Isolation

· Threats

· Intimidation

· Denial/blame

LOOK FOR THE TYPICAL “CYCLE OF VIOLENCE” (Resource--http://helpguide.org)

· Abuse

· Guilt

· “Normal” behavior

· Fantasy/planning

· Set-up

SAFETY TIPS

· Know your abuser’s red flags

· Identify safe areas in your home

· Make a list of emergency contacts and be prepared to contact them when warning signs and red flags appear

· Always be prepared to leave

For more information on domestic violence law go to www.DolanLegal.com. For additional resources and assistance, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-787-3224 or 1-800-799-SAFE.