Experiencing abuse at the hands of a significant other can scar both body and soul and instill a deep sense of shame, but even the most shocked, hurt, and paralyzed survivors of domestic violence can leave these dangerous situations with the help of numerous available resources and allies. In this sensitive discussion, host Pat Barbarito and featured guest Matthew Troiano examine the process, challenges, and ultimate rewards of seeking justice after experiencing intimate partner violence.

Highlights include understanding:

• What constitutes domestic violence – harassment, stalking, terroristic threats, emotional/financial control, assault, rape – and that it can be a single incident or a series;
• How the comfort of a relationship can empower an abuser, confuse the victim;
• What emergent relief is and how both temporary and final restraining orders are designed to protect;
• How sharing these private details with members of the legal system can be daunting AND key in rediscovering inner strength;
• Why ‘one-and-done’ might not always be the right resolution for every relationship;
• How lawyers handle victims who decide to return to their abusers, mid-process; and more.

BONUS: Matthew shares several anecdotes from his own experience that illustrate how relationships between prosecutor and victims can go from complete distrust to nearly familial bonds when handled with empathy and transparency.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 800.799.7233 or visiting thehotline.org.

In New Jersey? JBWS is ready to provide local support through their helpline 877.782.2873 or website jbws.org.

Be sure to follow Heartbreak & Hope with Pat Barbarito on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, or YouTube, or bookmark the official podcast webpage to keep the entire library at your fingertips.