The law makes specific provisions to protect a wife's interest if her husband dies. Where to Go for Legal Help and Advice. In the U.S., a wife is not considered a possession of her husband. According to law a man can not physically, sexually, emotionally or verbally abuse his wife. A woman has the right to press charges against her husband in an abusive situation and have him arrested.
Women have the right to contact the police or a domestic violence service for help and protection.