ABSTRACT
The difficulty of making the decision to leave an abusive relationship is discussed, as well as society's association with the question “Why didn't she just leave?” and the misnomer that the intimate partner violence (IPV) victim is unwilling to initiate self-help. The most dangerous time for an IPV victim is at the time of separation and immediately thereafter, making the decision to leave even more difficult for an IPV victim who has children. Further, intimate partner homicide-suicide is a known threat for any IPV victim, as these types of deaths are difficult to predict. IPV victims will, often, look to the judicial system for protection from IPV in the form of an injunction for protection. The process of obtaining an injunction for protection against domestic violence can be difficult and dangerous for the IPV victim. Engaging in litigation with their abuser is less than desirable for the IPV victim and may go on for an indefinite period, causing the non-violent tactics of coercive control to be deployed through a judicial proceeding with no abatement. Gender bias in the courts can allow this judicial terrorism® to cause prolonged intimidation, isolation, harassment, and power and control for years or even decades.
