Men also victims of domestic violence

■ Mukiba Louis

IN the shadows of Trinidad and Tobago, countless men are victims of domestic violence. Yes, men. As their whole existence or notion of manhood is questioned, many men suffer in silence, feeling trapped, ashamed, and alone. This battle is constantly raging in our communities, but it seldom makes it to our courts. Men are frequently discouraged from speaking up or asking for help due to cultural shame and traditional gender conventions, which can make them feel alone and helpless. This article highlights the different types of domestic violence, how assistance can be obtained from protection orders to legal advice and representation and examining the avenues available to victims of domestic violence.

It is crucial to create a supportive environment where male victims feel safe to seek help, heal, and break free from the cycle of abuse.

Q: What is Domestic Violence?

A: The Domestic Violence Act of Trinidad and Tobago (as amended) provides that domestic violence includes 'physical, sexual, emotional/ psychological or financial abuse committed by a respondent against a person who is in a domestic relationship with the respondent.'

What legal steps can be taken to prevent the continuance of the abuse?

Make a police report. Police officers have a duty to record the incident and/or investigate the incident, regardless of the gender.

Contact an attorney-at-law for legal advice: If you cannot afford an attorney-at-law, you can approach the Legal Aid and Advisory Authority. The attorney-at-law you speak with will provide you with various options that are available to you.

Contact the court. Make an application for a Protection Order, or a Protection Order which includes, excluding the alleged abuser from the home.

What is a Protection Order?

This is an Order from the court restraining the alleged abuser from engaging in any acts of domestic violence against the victim.

What is a Protection Order that excludes the abuser from the home?

This Order restrains the abuser from engaging in acts of violence against the victim and excludes them from occupying the shared premises, even where they may be the sole or joint owner of the shared premises.

Who can apply for a Protection Order?

Anyone who is in a domestic relationship such as: Spouse or former spouse Cohabitant or former cohabitant Child Dependant Relative Fiancé or ex-fiancé Persons in visiting relationships Persons in dating relationships Members of the same household Parties who share a child together Adults in residential institutions. Can an application for a Protection Order be made on behalf of another?

Yes. Applications for a Protection Order can be made on behalf of a child or an elder who is being abused.

What is the procedure to obtain a Protection Order?

Contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 866-3828, email, call or visit the District Court (formerly the Magistrates' Court) in the area you reside. Be sure to outline the alleged abuse and provide the name, address, and contact number of the abuser.

How long does a Protection Order last?

A Protection Order can last for a maximum of three years.

What can be done if a party breaches and/or does not comply with the Protection Order?

Contact the nearest police station and report the alleged breach. If possible, take pictures and recordings of the acts of violence and retain any evidence that may be necessary to support your case.

What happens to an abuser found in breach of the Order?

They can be arrested and/ or charged by the police. Where the police fails and/or neglects to charge the abuser, you can initiate proceedings for Breach of the Protection Order by contacting your District Court (formerly Magistrates' Court). However, you will have to retain a private attorney to assist you or represent yourself.

Can a Protection Order be renewed?

If the abuser persists in committing acts of abuse, and the three years have expired, a new application can be made. Please note, for Protection Orders, the acts of abuse or violence must have occurred within the last six months.

Is the process different for a man applying for a Protection Order than it is for a woman?

The same process detailed here applies to both men and women equally.

Other support services available are: National Family Services Division | 623 -2608 Families in action | 628 - 6333 Victim Support Unit (Gender Based Unit) |999. Lifeline Trinidad and Tobago | 645 -2800.

Remember, a man seeking help is not a sign of weakness but an act of strength. Don't wait until it's too late...Support is available for you.

SUFFERING IN SILENCE: Countless men are victims of domestic violence in Trinidad and Tobago.