When a person is affected by domestic violence, it can leave him or her unsure of what to do next. In New Jersey, he or she can file for a protective order which prohibits the accused abuser from having contact with the victim.
Requesting a protective order
Protective orders, also known as restraining orders, may be granted by the court in domestic violence situations. Domestic violence may involve people who were or are in a romantic relationship or have ever lived together.
A person can request a domestic violence protective order if they were married, live together, are dating or have a child together with the accused abuser. They may also qualify under other circumstances. The victim can file a request for a protective order in the county where the accused abuser lives, in the county where the victim lives or where the victim is staying temporarily.
Order types and restrictions
There are two types of protective orders, temporary and final. A temporary protective order is in place until the court holds a hearing with both parties. A final protective order is in place permanently unless the victim requests the court to remove or end it.
The protective order may prohibit the accused abuser from doing several things. These include being barred from the victim’s residence, place of work or other places, prohibits him or her from harassing the victim, prohibits him or her from possessing weapons and he or she may be ordered to pay child support or emergency costs.
If a person needs additional information about protective orders, an experienced family law attorney can help.
