Actual physical violence committed by one spouse on another with the intent to cause danger to life and limb may be a basis for a fault ground divorce under New Hampshire law. In order to meet the statutory requirements, the physical abuse must consist of a course of conduct rather than a single act. However, the acts of physical violence need not be consistent, nor a fixed habit nor numerous in number before they constitute extreme cruelty under the statute.
Domestic violence has little place in society and every care or effort should be used to counsel and assist victims of domestic violence.
If you have any questions regarding the fault ground of extreme cruelty please contact an attorney at Hamblett & Kerrigan.
Kevin P. Rauseo is a former director at Hamblett & Kerrigan P.A. and has since been appointed as a Justice for the New Hampshire Circuit Court. Please feel free to contact another attorney at Hamblett & Kerrigan to discuss your legal issues.