The legal war between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie is getting uglier by the day. In the latest development, actress Angelina Jolie has accused her ex-husband of domestic violence, reports US weekly.
Jolie has now filed documents in court claiming she was a victim of domestic violence at the hands of Pitt and said that she will offer ‘proof and authority’ to substantiate her claim.
The documents further indicate that their children have agreed to give testimony against the 57-year-old actor’s alleged violence. But there’s more on Angelina Jolie marriage saga.
Jolie Claims She Has Proof of Domestic Violence Against Pitt
Angelina Jolie (Photo Courtesy (Wikimedia)
As per the court filing, the estranged couple’s children could freely speak out in court in their divorce hearings. (The couple has six children-Maddox, 19, Pax, 17, and Zahara, 16, Shiloh, 14, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 12.)
The couple married in 2014, but soon after their split, it was revealed that Pitt was being investigated by the FBI and child welfare services in Los Angeles. There were reports that he got “verbally abusive and physical with his children” on a private jet returning from Europe. Authorities subsequently cleared Pitt.
“Angelina has used the children to hurt Brad”
A source close to Brad Pitt told ET, “Over the past four and a half years there have been several claims made by Angelina that have been reviewed and not substantiated. Angelina has used the children to hurt Brad before and this is more of that behaviour. This leaking of documents by her fourth or fifth set of lawyers has been done to hurt Brad.”
While the Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie marriage saga continues to be a subject of much discussion, the fact is that the courts will now decide on the veracity of the claims.
However, if there was one issue that has again been highlighted due to these shocking new claims, it is that of domestic violence. This menace has indeed become a matter of grave concern for women globally. Especially now with the pandemic, where families are being forced to stay together.
If you are going through the same and looking for a way out, here are a few things you can do.
What To Do If You Face Domestic Violence
Domestic violence victim should never remain silent (Photo Courtesy: Flickr)
If you are a domestic violence victim, you will need to conjure up the courage to seek immediate help.
Share with someone
A domestic violence victim often lives in a bubble and refuses to share anything they go through. However, if you seriously want to get out, the first step is to face the reality. Share your pain with someone you trust. Sometimes talking to someone like a friend can also help you seek the direction out of this problem.
Stop blaming yourself
Until and unless you stop blaming yourself, it will be difficult for you to come out of the trap. No, your partner didn’t slap you because you did something wrong! Do not accept or normalise the situation.
Collect evidence
If you are a victim or know someone, it is important to gather evidence against the abuser. This will strengthen your case and might shame the abuse to stop in their path.
Inform the authorities
Even if you don’t have proof, but are at the receiving end of the torture, consider leaving the relationship, and inform the authorities immediately. This is not necessary limited to the local police, but also includes non-governmental organisations that work towards helping victims of domestic violence in Singapore.
Domestic Violence Helpline Numbers in Singapore
Aware
Women Helpline Number: Call us on 1800 777 5555 from Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Sexual Assault Care Centre: Call 6779 0282 to speak to a trained volunteer and receive support through the phone. You can also make an appointment to see a case manager for further help.
The helpline runs Monday-Friday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Ministry of Social & Family Development
If you or someone you know is encountering child abuse, adult abuse, vulnerable adult abuse or family violence-related matters, call the NAVH at 1800-777 0000.
A domestic violence victim can be anyone- your sister, colleague, wife, husband, friend or anyone. It is important to speak up and stand for what is right.
News Source: NDTV