Policies and laws regarding domestic violence have changed considerably in recent decades. The days of domestic assault being just a ‘family matter’ are getting further and further in our states rear view mirror. Lawmakers here have heard and are reacting to the data; there were nearly 78,000 reported incidents of domestic violence in Tennessee last year alone. According to recent research data, Tennessee ranks 4th in the nation for domestic violence homicide. State legislators are taking steps to recognize, legitimize and protect victims of domestic violence.  The 2 new laws passed by the Tennessee General Assembly earlier this year are aimed at doing just that.

THE NEW LAWS AND WHAT THEY MEAN FOR VICTIMS

SB1796/HB2033 – Law regarding cell phone accounts

This law allows domestic abuse victims to request that a court order be issued to wireless telephone service providers, directing them to transfer the billing responsibility for and rights to the wireless telephone number or numbers to the victim.

This means that when there is a domestic violence situation and the abuser is the main account holder for the victim’s cell phone service, the victim can petition the court to require the service provider to sever the joint account. This bars the abuser’s access to the victims private cell phone logs, text logs and location information; a few of the main avenues used by an abuser to control their victim.

SB1735/HB1719 – Law regarding ‘no contact order’ 

This law allows a judge to issue a ‘no contact order’ if a court finds probable cause that an alleged perpetrator has caused serious bodily injury or used or displayed a weapon. The no contact order will be a mandatory condition of the perpetrators bond and is in addition to restraining orders.

This is an extra layer of victim protection that means once an abuser is released on bond, they are forbade by the court to have any contact with their victim, directly or indirectly. Direct contact includes phone calls, texts, contact on social media or showing up anywhere the victim is at. Indirect contact includes using a third party to deliver messages. For example, having a friend or family member deliver a message. It can also include posting a social media message that is directed at the victim. Abusers also cannot leave gifts or notes for their victims. No contact means exactly that – NO contact.

If you are a victim of domestic violence and are in need of legal protection or want to know more about your rights, please call The Slaughter Law Firm today!