Domestic Violence And Orders For Protection
Matters involving domestic violence and abuse require an experienced and compassionate attorney. Any time domestic abuse is an issue for the courts, the stress and anxiety can be overwhelming. Your lawyer should be someone you can trust implicitly to put your best interests first and protect your legal rights, emotions and family relationships through an incredibly difficult time.
Catherine Ryan has been helping clients in family law matters in Augusta, Georgia, for over 30 years. She understands what you are going through and has helped numerous clients in your situation before. Ms. Ryan considers herself a counselor-at-law, a trusted advocate on whom clients can rely. She will provide you with options and work with you to decide on the right course for you.
Orders For Protection
Broadly speaking, there are two main types of orders for protection: temporary and permanent. Also commonly known as restraining orders, these court orders can prevent the accused from living in the same household or having any contact with the victim, their own children or family members. Individuals subject to an order for protection may also be prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
Temporary Protective Orders (TPOs) can be issued without the alleged abuser being present. However, because the court has not heard both sides of the story, such orders are only temporary. In order to obtain a permanent protective order, there must be a hearing in which both sides can present evidence before a judge.
Orders for protection do not require criminal charges of assault. TPOs and PPOs are intended solely to protect victims of domestic abuse from further harm or threatened harm. However, if the evidence supports the need for criminal action, the victim or the state may decide to bring criminal charges, which are handled in separate criminal court proceedings.
What Actions Are Considered To Be Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is more than just physical or sexual abuse. Other types of abuse and harassment are also considered domestic violence. The most common types of abuse that lead to domestic violence charges include:
- Physical and sexual abuse. This may include physical and sexual attacks, attacking with a weapon and restraining someone against their will.
- Emotional abuse. This includes intimidating, controlling, and manipulating someone and often involves cutting off access to friends and family.
- Stalking. Stalking includes uninvited visits to the home and/or in the workplace and other types of unwanted contact.
- Financial abuse. This runs the gamut of preventing access to money and property to vandalizing property. Financial abuse also includes stopping someone from going to work or finding ways to get them fired from their job.
The list above is only a broad overview. If you feel that you are a victim of domestic violence, it is best to seek protection. If it is an emergency, call 911. Once you are safe, contact attorney Ryan.
Call An Experienced And Compassionate Lawyer Today
For knowledgeable, caring representation by an attorney who will stand up for your rights and protect you and your family, call 706-251-7612 for an initial phone consultation. You can also fill out this confidential online contact form.
We only practice in the state of Georgia.