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New cellphone bill welcomed by victims of domestic violence

by | May 6, 2015 | Domestic Violence, Firm News |

People may fear many things in life. For victims of domestic violence, the level of fear with which they live their entire lives is so great that, at times, it may feel almost impossible to breathe. A bill is currently making its way through the California legal system that, if it passes, offers a means to help those victims in getting away from abusers with regards to family-share wireless plans.

The way the law currently stands, a family-share plan with any wireless provider may only be altered or cancelled by the primary holder. In a situation where one spouse is the victim of domestic abuse, it often follows that the primary account holder is the one committing the abuse. This can mean that the victim is constantly under surveillance by the abuser, with every single call and text that is received and sent being vetted or questioned.

If this bill passes — and at present, all wireless providers are backing it — it could mean that anyone caught in this terrible situation may be able to sever his or her connection to the family-share plan even though he or she is not the primary account holder. The individual would still retain the wireless service in full but completely independent of the original contract. A restraining order would need to be in place in order to execute the process, but it will undoubtedly be of particular benefit to those who are subject to stalking or harassment by his or her estranged spouse.

If it continues to proceed through the legislature, then the bill may come into effect next year. Until that happens, California residents still have many options at their disposal to deal with an abusive spouse. Whatever form the abuse takes, victims of domestic violence need not continue to suffer in silence. Seeking appropriate advice and guidance can lead to finding a place of safety, enabling one to take stock of his or her own situation before deciding on the best course of action.

Source: cbslocal.com, “Assembly Bill Would Allow Domestic Violence Victims To Leave Family Cellphone Plans“, Adrienne Moore, April 30, 2015

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