HOW DOMESTIC ABUSERS WEAPONIZE THE COURTS

Many abusers misuse the court system to maintain power and control over their former or current partners, a method sometimes called “​vexatious” or “abusive” litigation, also known as “paper” or “separation” abuse, or “stalking by way of the courts.” Perpetrators file frivolous lawsuits—sometimes even from prison—to keep their victims coming back to court to face them. After a breakup, the courts are often the only tool left for abusers seeking to maintain a hold over their victims’ lives. The process costs money and time, and can further traumatize victims of intimate-partner violence, even after they have managed to leave the relationship. ​

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