Understanding Abuse and Your Rights
Abuse can take many forms. It is not always physical. Abuse can be emotional, verbal, financial, digital, sexual, or involve threats or control. Oklahoma protects survivors of many types of harm - whether the abuse happens in an intimate partner relationship, a family, a household, or another close relationship. Learn what abuse looks like, how it affects people, and what your rights are.
Types of Abuse
Bruises, for example, from a physical abuse altercation are obvious. More subtle signs may be far more challenging to spot and may go undetected until years down the road. The injury does not have to be physical for the law to protect you from abuse.
These are some of the most common types of abuse:
Under Oklahoma law, “abuse” includes
- Physical harm
- Threats
- Stalking or harassment
- Kidnapping
- Intimidation
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Sexual violence
- Destruction of property
- Cyberstalking or unauthorized access
(Okla. Stat. tit. 22 § 60.1)
About Protective Orders
A protective order is a court order that can help protect you from abuse, stalking, harassment, or contact from the other person. It can set legal limits on what the other person is allowed to do - such as contact you or coming near you. You do not have to go through this process alone.
Seeking a Protective Order
Knowing the type of abuse can help you identify the right resources and safety strategies. Advocates can guide survivors through legal protections and support options specific to each situation. Different types of abuse may qualify for different safety steps or protective orders.
Below is a simple comparison of three common types of abuse.
Does this information make you feel more confident in your next step?
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