If you're living in an abusive relationship, you need to get help as quickly as possible. There are people who can help you escape the abuse. However, you do need to take steps to protect yourself now that you've decided to leave. If you're not sure what to do to get out the abusive relationship, here are four steps to help you get started. 

Recognize the Abuse

It's not always easy to recognize the abuse when you're living it, especially when your partner has taken steps to make you feel like everything is your fault. The one thing you need to know is that abuse is never your fault. The next thing you need to know is that abuse comes in many different forms. If your partner isn't leaving bruises or other physical injuries, you may not feel that you're the victim of abuse. However, that's not the case. If your partner uses intimidation to put you in fear for your safety, or they use psychological or emotional abuse to control you, those are forms of abuse. It's time to get help. 

Develop a Thorough Plan

If the abuse you're enduring has escalated and you're in fear for your safety, you need to develop a plan of action. There are steps you'll need to take to escape the situation. The first thing you need to do is put some money away. That way, you have the funds you need to get as far away as possible. The next thing you need to do is gather a few sets of clothes and your important documents. If your partner monitors your clothing and you're afraid to pack anything, visit a local thrift shop and pick up a few things that you can use for your emergency pack. Finally, find a safe place to store your supplies. Don't leave them anywhere that your partner may find, such as in your home or car. 

Choose Your Network Carefully

If you're in an abusive relationship and you need to escape, choose your network carefully. The people you trust to help you should be individuals who don't have any ties to your partner. For instance, you may feel that you can trust a shared friend, but that might not be the case. Instead, make your escape network out of people who don't know your partner, or who you know won't have any type of loyalty to them. Your escape network should include people such as your trusted co-workers or your own close family members. 

Make Contact With the Right Attorney

Finally, if you're making plans to escape an abusive relationship, reach out to an attorney like those at Wilder Law Firm. You'll want to have a family violence attorney in your corner throughout the process. They can help you make the arrangements you'll need to get out quickly and safely.