Domestic violence is one of the ultimate forms of betrayal, and victims sometimes do not know where to turn. There is no issue more pressing than feeling unsafe in your own home, whether you are a man or a woman, regardless of your race or sexual orientation. The first step towards safety is recognizing that your partner is an abuser, and most likely, if you are reading this, you are already there. However, it is very often an uphill battle from here. This is why you need experienced legal counsel and a bit of self-education to reach your safe haven. Fortunately, though it may not seem it now, you can feel safe and secure once again. If you are a victim of domestic violence, you need to know your legal options. You cannot wait. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the New Jersey domestic violence laws?
Thanks to the 1991 Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, if you are a victim of domestic violence, you may receive criminal and civil relief. However, more importantly, these laws seek to provide victims with the safety they need and deserve, so they can live a productive, worry-free life.
How do I get a restraining order?
Once you report an incident or incidents of domestic violence, a court will generally grant you a Temporary Restraining Order, or a TRO. You may also obtain a Temporary Restraining Order from the local police station as well. Some of the grounds for a Temporary Restraining Order are as follows:
- Stalking
- Terroristic threats
- Assault
- Harassment
- Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
Once a Temporary Restraining Order is in place, a court will schedule a Final Restraining Order hearing soon after. Here, the court will determine whether a Temporary Restraining Order should become permanent.
What happens if I am wrongly accused of domestic violence?
Domestic violence accusations carry heavy implications and may affect child custody terms, spousal support, additional divorce matters, and more. If you believe you have been wrongly or unfairly accused of domestic violence, you must contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Various financial and reputational aspects of your life may be at risk.
Contact our compassionate New Jersey firm
When you are in a relationship, whether you are married or not, you trust your partner to care for you and always have your best interest in mind. Domestic violence is never okay, even if you think it was an isolated incident. Unfortunately, most incidents are not isolated, and even if your partner has sincerely apologized, it is time to cut your relationship off. There are no valid excuses for domestic violence. You deserve better.
Matters of divorce and family law require the attention and skill of an experienced attorney who will fight for your future. If you need a divorce and family law attorney in Ocean County, New Jersey, contact the Law Office of Sarina Gianna, LLC today to schedule a consultation.
