At Florida Women’s Law Group—the only divorce and family-law firm in Northeast Florida created for women, by women—we routinely help clients escape relationships marked by coercive control: a pattern of domination that attacks a woman’s autonomy, dignity, and economic security.
Founder Heather Quick, an AV Preeminent–rated “Ultimate CEO” and host of the “Women Winning Divorce” podcast, leads an all-woman team that has guided thousands of survivors through safety planning, injunctions, and complex divorce litigation. Below, we explain what coercive control looks like, how Florida law addresses it, and what evidence can protect you.
Definition and Core Elements
The term coercive control was popularized by sociologist Evan Stark, who describes it as a “strategic form of ongoing oppression and terrorism” that strips away a partner’s freedom (Coercive control: How men entrap women in personal life).
| Element | Description |
| Isolation | Cutting off friends, family, or transportation. |
| Intimidation | Threats of harm, deportation, or suicide to keep you compliant. |
| Economic Abuse | Stealing income, sabotaging jobs, and blocking access to bank accounts. |
| Micro-Regulation | Dictating what you wear, eat, or even when you can sleep. |
| Surveillance | GPS trackers, phone monitoring, and constant texts demanding proof of location. |
Unlike single incidents of assault, coercive control is cumulative—its power comes from the relentless, day-to-day erosion of choice.
Common Tactics Survivors Report
- “Gaslighting:” Denying obvious facts to make you doubt reality.
- Digital restraints: Resetting phone passwords, controlling social media.
- Immigration leverage: Threatening to call ICE or withhold paperwork.
- Pet abuse: Hurting or menacing beloved animals to instill fear (The Link Between Animal Cruelty And Human Violence, About Safe Havens).
Legal Recognition in Florida and Beyond
Most U.S. states, including Florida, define domestic violence primarily around acts such as battery or stalking. But research shows victims are at the most significant risk when these acts are embedded in coercive control (Centers for Disease Control, IPV Technical Package). Physical injury may never occur, yet the victim’s life can shrink to a “state-imposed captivity.”
Documenting Coercive Control
Collect the following:
- Screenshots of abusive texts, tracking-app alerts, or bank withdrawals
- Journals noting dates, times, witnesses, and effects on work or health
- Financial records proving hidden debts or stolen paychecks
- Smart-home data (door-cam logs, thermostat changes) showing unauthorized entry
- Witness testimonies, when possible
How Florida Women’s Law Group Can Help
- Injunctions & Emergency Relief: We file for immediate protective orders that forbid contact, grant exclusive use of the marital home, and secure temporary child support.
- Financial Forensics: Our firm partners with forensic accountants to trace hidden assets and build economic-abuse claims.
- Child-Custody Strategy: Judges must consider a parent’s history of controlling or violent behavior when determining time-sharing (§ 61.13, Florida Stat.). We craft evidence-rich parenting plans that prioritize children’s safety.
- Trauma-Informed Advocacy: From confidential safety planning to counseling referrals, we deliver holistic support so clients can heal while we litigate.
You Deserve Freedom and Safety
Coercive control thrives in silence. If any part of this article describes your situation, contact us today to book your confidential consultation. With a record of landmark results and unmatched compassion, Florida Women’s Law Group stands ready to help you reclaim your voice—and your future.
