When you finally get out of an abusive relationship, you will feel like you can breathe for the first time. However, remember, just because your ex-spouse can no longer reach out and physically hurt you does not mean that they cannot still negatively affect your life.
First, they go after your money
If you have not already opened up your own bank accounts or credit cards, separate from your soon-to-be ex-spouse, then, they will try to cut you off financially. It will likely be the first call they make: to the bank. They will either try to take you off of accounts or close those accounts entirely.
Second, they go after your credit
After they try to stop you from being able to pay for anything, your soon-to-be ex-spouse will try to ruin your credit so that you cannot use that to get by. This is done by taking out large loans or credit lines, and then, immediately not paying them. A large number of new accounts will lower your credit score, which can make finding a home, new job or even opening up another Los Angeles, California, bank account extremely hard, maybe, impossible.
Then, they go after your family and social network
If they know your passwords or have access to your smart devices, they may try to take over your social media to plant seeds of doubt about you. They will start spreading rumors and defaming your name to anyone and everyone. They want to gaslight you and those that care about you that you are, in fact, the bad guy.
How to avoid this?
Unless you have to depart your soon-to-be ex-spouse immediately to save your life, you should plan your escape with your lawyer prior to leaving. They can help you set up a separate financial life, lock your credit reports and protect your social media accounts.