Domestic violence comes in more forms than physical harm alone. Perpetrators of domestic violence often use other methods of abuse to victimize their targets as well. These can include Psychological Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Abuse and even Legal Abuse.

No matter what form the abuse takes, it is never okay. As a victim, you have a certain set of inalienable human rights. If you or someone you know is suffering from abuse of any kind, remember that you don't have to stay silent. There is help available. Consider printing the following Victim Bill of Rights adapted from the Nicole Brown Foundation Education Center. Post it in a conspicuous place to remind yourself that you are not alone. You have the right to be happy. You have the right to be safe.

1. I will not be blamed or shamed for having been a victim.
2. I have the right to be happy.
3. I have the right to be free from all forms of abuse: physical, mental, emotional, psychological, sexual, or legal.
4. I have the right to feel my feelings, no matter what they are.
5. I have the right to take care of myself.
6. I have the right to have my needs met.
7. It is not my job to make everyone else happy.
8. I have the right to make choices.
9. I have the right to be loved in a healthy way.
10. I have the right to live without fear.
11. I have the right to express myself.
12. I have the right to forgive myself for my past mistakes.
13. I have the right to put myself first.
14. I have the right to be human - not PERFECT.
15. I have the right to my privacy and free time.
16. I have the right to have fun.
17. I have the right to earn and control my money.
18. I have the right to ask questions about anything that concerns my life.
19. I have the right to say NO.
20. I have the right to feel safe.

For more information on your rights contact Benjamin J. Cox, Attorney at Law.