Restraining Orders
Every year, millions of Americans are affected by domestic abuse. Fortunately, there are laws in place that can help victims avoid further domestic abuse. One of the most common ways the court can aid victims
of domestic abuse is by ordering a restraining order against the abuser.
Restraining orders-also known as orders of protection, among other names-make it illegal for an abuser
to continue contact with the abused. This includes physical contact with the abused, but can also extend
to communications like phone calls and emails. Often these orders also prohibit contact with the victim’s
children and even the children’s schools and doctors.
Other Ramifications of a Restraining Order
In some jurisdictions, people under a restraining order can be ordered to hand over any firearms and
ammunition they might have. Restraining orders in some place can make abusers subject to regular drug
tests. They might also be required to undergo drug and/or alcohol counseling. Domestic abusers might
also be forced to undergo counseling for their behavior.
Sometimes abusers are also required to pay towards medical bills, property damage, or ongoing shared
debts like mortgage payments. Sometimes the victim can be awarded sole control of shared property like
houses and vehicles.
The penalties for violating a restraining order can be severe. In cases where the order prohibits the
abuser from going within a specified distance of the victim, for example, the victim can take legal
action against the abuser for getting too near. If the abuser assaults the victim, of course, the restraining
order only compounds the offense.
Contact Us
If you are attempting to escape domestic abuse, a compassionate divorce lawyer can help you file for
a restraining order. Remember that you do not deserve to be abused and that you are not alone. With
the help of an attorney, you can keep your abuser at a distance and end legal ties between you.
href="/contact/">Contact the experienced Oceanside divorce lawyers of Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP
today at 760-722-7646.