Domestic violence in California refers to any violence inflicted upon a spouse, co-parent, cohabitant, past or present romantic partner, child, or family member.
Domestic violence is a crime. If you or a loved one is a victim of domestic violence in California, it is critical that you contact a California domestic violence lawyer who will protect your legal rights. You and your loved ones don’t have to hurt and suffer anymore.
The law affords protection to persons who are victims of domestic violence because these individuals are especially vulnerable. Because domestic violence victims are at a unique risk for injury, the law imposes harsh consequences on domestic violence offenders.
California Restraining Orders
The first thing you need to do is to protect yourself from your abuser, by removing yourself from the situation so the abuse will stop. There are many ways you can do this through the court system, including filing for a domestic violence restraining order to protect you, your children and those residing with you.
Your California domestic violence lawyer can provide you with the details of each available restraining order issued by California courts. Below is a brief overview:
1) Emergency Protective Order (EPO)
An Emergency Protective Order is issued by law enforcement in situations where there is an immediate need for protection of domestic violence victims who are in imminent threat of harm. An EPO is valid for 5 days.
2) Domestic Violence Temporary Restraining Order (TRO or DVRO)
A Domestic Violence Temporary Restraining Order is put into place for victims of domestic violence by a judge for an initial 15-21 days. Upon the next court date, if you or your California domestic violence lawyer presents sufficient evidence, the judge may continue it in place for up to five years.
3) Criminal Protective Order (“No Contact” Order)
A Criminal Protective Order can be obtained through the criminal court if criminal charges are filed against the abuser. This order will last as long as the court proceedings and can be in pace for up to 10 years. In order to obtain this type of order, you or your domestic violence lawyer must prove to the court that the defendant harmed you, threatened you or your family, and/or tried to coerce you to not testify.
California Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you are a victim of domestic violence, you will need a skilled California domestic violence lawyer to explain your rights and vigorously represent you in court. At Wallin & Klarich, we have helped people dealing with domestic violence issues for over 30 years. Call us today at (888) 749-7428. We will get through this together.
