Helping Domestic Violence Victims Put a Stop to Abuse
Everyone deserves to be safe in their own home. If you have been the victim of domestic violence, obtaining a protective order can be an important first step to stopping the violence and protecting yourself and your family.
At the Atlanta law office of Jackson Steed, we help clients — both women and men — obtain protective orders. We will listen to you, answer your questions, help you understand your legal rights, and represent you in court for a domestic violence hearing.
Many people are reluctant to file for a protective order because they are worried about retaliation. We understand your fears. Our family law attorneys can refer you to family violence counseling organizations that can work with you to develop a strategy to protect yourself and your family.
While it may seem difficult, taking a stand to stop domestic abuse is the most important thing you can do — for yourself and for any children in your home. A protective order is designed to do just that.
Let us to help you break free of domestic violence. Contact Jackson Steed to discuss your case with an experienced Georgia lawyer.
Understanding Your Rights to Legal Protection
A temporary protective order (TPO) is also known as a restraining order or an order of protection. It is a court order that forbids someone from approaching you at your home, your work, your school and in social settings. In some cases, it can prevent that person from contacting your children and family as well. If the abuser violates the protective order, he or she can be arrested immediately.
You can seek a domestic violence protective order against a spouse or former spouse, a boyfriend or girlfriend, the parent of your child, or anyone else whom you live with or formerly lived with.
Guiding You Through the Filing and Hearing Processes
When you file for a TPO, the court will generally put an order in place immediately. You and your lawyer will be the only people in attendance at the first hearing and you will not need a great deal of proof at this stage. However, the judge will want to know that you have a reasonable fear for your safety.
The temporary protective order will be served against your abuser by the sheriff. If the abuser lives in your home, the sheriff will get him or her to leave. Your order will be valid and enforced until a hearing can be scheduled, which usually occurs within 30 days of the initial filing.
At this hearing, the abuser and his or her attorney can also be present. They may present evidence to the judge in an effort to get the order invalidated. Your attorney will present your case and ask the judge to extend the order for 12 months (a permanent protective order). After 12 months, the order can be renewed.
At this hearing, the judge can also issue orders relating to child custody and child and spousal support so you and your children have the support you need.
To learn more about the protective order process and what our attorneys can do to help you overcome family violence and spousal abuse, contact our Atlanta family law office today
