The closer the personal relationship, the greater the potential for heated arguments and violent outbursts. Fortunately, there are several New Jersey laws in place to protect individuals from domestic abuse or domestic violence. At the Paris P. Eliades Law Firm LLC, we have decades of combined experience with domestic violence laws, guiding clients through their rights as the victim. We understand the fear and frustration that follow the threat of physical violence or actual abuse. It is important that you take the proper steps to protect yourself and your children from harm. Our firm can educate you on what needs to be done and guide you through the process from start to finish. Contact Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC for a consultation.
Restraining orders explained
In 1991, The New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act was enacted to fight the growing problem of abuse in relationships. It states that through civil and criminal relief, one can protect themselves from abuse at the hands of another. If you are the victim of domestic violence, contact your local family court during business hours or with the local police department. A restraining order is the first step in protecting yourself and the family. A restraining order can be issued based on several circumstances of violence, including:
- Assault
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Terroristic threats
- Criminal mischief
- Sexual assault
- Criminal trespass
- Criminal restraint
- False imprisonment
A restraining order is an effective tool that limits the proximity and contact between the parties. In the context of domestic violence, a restraining order can help a victim in a relationship get distance from the violent party while they focus on holding the party accountable through criminal relief. New Jersey is proactive when dealing with domestic violence. Utilizing a “better safe than sorry” mentality, a temporary restraining order will be issued to most people who request it. The court will then hear the case and decide if the restraining order should become permanent. Once a temporary or permanent restraining order is in effect, there is no mediation or counseling available to them to relieve the situation.
Criminal Charges
Under the law, one may request a restraining order, file criminal charges, or both. In the circumstance where a party wants to files for criminal charges, they may do so with a Criminal Complaint. When physical signs of abuse are present, a police officer has to sign the Criminal Complaint in order to document the injury. One may file criminal charges where they reside, where the other party resides, where the incident occurred, or where the victim is being sheltered.
Contact a firm to protect your rights
Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC is available to guide you through tough times. Though it may be difficult, speaking with one of our compassionate attorneys may help protect you from violence and hold the abusing party accountable for their actions. If you have been the victim of domestic violence, legal action should be taken immediately. We are ready to protect your rights as the accuser or the accused. If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, you deserve effective representation that can fight against the false charges and hold the accuser responsible. Either way, Clients trust our experience and our ability to handle these complex matters. If you need quality legal services with the commitment to protect our clients, contact Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC.