Economic Violence

Recognizing oneself as a victim of economic violence is often the first and most difficult step. It is a subtle form of abuse that leaves no visible marks but slowly erodes a person's autonomy, dignity, and security. This type of financial control can manifest in many ways within a family relationship, creating forced dependence and a deep state of vulnerability. As an expert family lawyer in Milan, lawyer Marco Bianucci addresses these complex dynamics with the utmost confidentiality and expertise, providing the legal tools to stop the abuse and rebuild one's independence.

The Regulatory Framework on Economic Violence

Although there is no single law defining "economic violence," our legal system offers multiple protective instruments. The Istanbul Convention, ratified by Italy, explicitly recognizes it as a form of gender-based violence, defining it as any act that causes or may cause economic damage, including the deprivation of financial resources. This conduct may constitute criminal offenses such as mistreatment in the family (Art. 572 c.p.) or violation of family assistance obligations (Art. 570 c.p.), but it finds protection primarily in civil law, particularly in separation and divorce proceedings.

The concrete manifestations of financial control are varied and often disguised as alleged "family management." Among the most common are preventing a partner from working, appropriating their salary, limiting access to bank accounts, incurring debts in the other's name without their knowledge, or denying the necessary resources for the maintenance of children and the home. Recognizing these behaviors not as simple marital disputes, but as genuine economic abuse, is crucial for taking legal action.

The Approach of the Bianucci Law Firm

The approach of lawyer Marco Bianucci, family lawyer in Milan, is based on a meticulous analysis of the family's financial and relational situation. The first objective is to gather the necessary evidence to prove control and abuse: bank statements, documentation related to debts, messages, emails, and testimonies can form a solid evidentiary picture. The strategy is never standardized but tailored to the specific needs of the assisted person.

Our action focuses on two main fronts. On one hand, we aim to obtain immediate protective measures through the urgent instruments provided by law, such as protection orders against family abuse, which can order the perpetrator of the violence to cease the conduct and pay periodic support. On the other hand, we build a long-term strategy within any separation or divorce proceedings, so that the economic violence suffered is adequately considered by the judge in determining maintenance payments and in the potential attribution of fault for the separation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prove I am a victim of economic violence?

Proof of economic violence is based on the collection of documents and testimonies. It is essential to keep bank statements showing unjustified withdrawals or lack of deposits, unauthorized loan agreements in your name, written communications (emails, messages) in which resources are denied or control is exercised. Testimonies from friends, relatives, or professionals who are aware of your situation can also be decisive.

Are there criminal consequences for reporting a partner for economic violence?

It depends on the severity and nature of the conduct. Continuous behaviors of control, humiliation, and deprivation can constitute the crime of mistreatment in the family. Failure to provide the means of subsistence can constitute the crime of violation of family assistance obligations. An in-depth legal analysis of the case, conducted by an expert lawyer, is necessary to establish whether the prerequisites for a criminal complaint exist in addition to civil action.

Can I get maintenance payments if I experience financial control?

Absolutely yes. During separation proceedings, the judge establishes economic measures, including maintenance payments for the economically weaker spouse and for the children. Proving that you have suffered economic violence is a crucial element that can heavily influence the judge's decision on the amount of the payment and the necessity of issuing a provisional and urgent payment from the early stages of the case.

How long does it take to get a protection order?

Proceedings for protection orders against family abuse are designed to be rapid, given the urgency of protecting the victim. After filing the application, the court schedules a hearing within a short period, usually within a few weeks. If the judge deems the danger founded, they can issue the order immediately, even provisionally, to ensure timely protection.

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Recognizing and addressing economic violence is the first step to regaining your autonomy and peace of mind. It is a delicate situation that requires competent, strategic, and empathetic legal assistance, capable of understanding the psychological dynamics that often accompany financial ones. The protection of your rights and your economic future is a priority that cannot be postponed.

If you believe you are a victim of financial control or economic abuse, contact the Bianucci Law Firm based in Milan. Lawyer Marco Bianucci, with his consolidated experience as an expert family lawyer, can provide you with the necessary support to analyze your situation and define the most effective legal strategy to protect your rights and independence.