Blog

How to Get a Restraining Order Changed if the Complainant Changes Their Mind

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Mar 23, 2023 | 0 Comments

Restraining orders can be useful for judges and courts to help manage dangerous situations between people. When a restraining order is granted, it will typically include certain conditions that the defendant must follow in order to comply with the order. These requirements are in effect until they are removed or altered by a judge, even if the complainant changes their mind. If you have questions about a restraining order, then the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can help you answer them.

Who Can Get a Restraining Order?

Under New Jersey law, those who are alleging domestic violence can obtain a restraining order. The first step in the process would be to obtain a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), where the judge will issue without a full hearing. A full hearing will typically follow to determine if a permanent Final Restraining Order (FRO) should be granted. The judge in these cases will review all of the evidence and testimony presented by both sides to determine if the temporary orders should be made permanent. If the complainant's position changes after the TRO is ordered, then it may have an effect on the determination of a FRO.

How to Get a Restraining Order Changed

Restraining orders can only be modified by court order. Their provisions are permanent and do not expire. Many people mistakenly think that reconciliation between two parties will automatically mean that restraining orders become invalid; this is simply not true. In some cases, it could even lead to violations of said orders. Petitioners may also request changes or additions be made if relevant information concerning the defendant or shared children has been deemed necessary.

The most common ways to alter the terms of a restraining order are to file a motion for reconsideration, motion to vacate, or an appeal. In filing a motion for reconsideration, parties ask the judge to reassess their decision based on given reasons. Both petitioners and defendants can make this request, however, the evidence must prove that the restraining order is no longer needed in order for the judge to revise their decision.

When someone appeals a judge's decision regarding a restraining order, they are claiming that either legal mistakes were made or the facts presented do not meet the burden of proof necessary. This appeal would be made to the appropriate appellate court.

Why Hiring the Lento Law Firm is the Right Choice

If you are seeking to change the terms of a restraining order, then it is critical to have an experienced attorney's help. Attorney Joseph D. Lento and his expert team have helped people with their legal issues across the state of New Jersey. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 to learn why hiring the Lento Law Firm is the right choice.

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento passionately fights for the futures of his clients in criminal courtrooms in New Jersey as well as Pennsylvania and nationwide. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. With unparalleled experience occupying several roles in the criminal justice system outside of being an attorney, Joseph D. Lento can give you valuable behind-the-scenes insight as to what is happening during all phases of the legal process. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings!

Comments

There are no comments for this post. Be the first and Add your Comment below.

Leave a Comment

​​​Contact The Lento Law Firm Today

When it comes to criminal defense cases, you need the right person in your corner. To learn more about how Mr. Lento can help you, call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686. or contact him online.

This website was created only for general information purposes. It is not intended to be construed as legal advice for any situation. Only a direct consultation with a licensed Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York attorney can provide you with formal legal counsel based on the unique details surrounding your situation. The pages on this website may contain links and contact information for third party organizations - the Lento Law Firm does not necessarily endorse these organizations nor the materials contained on their website. In Pennsylvania, Attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout Pennsylvania's 67 counties, including, but not limited to Philadelphia, Allegheny, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Dauphin, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Schuylkill, and York County. In New Jersey, attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout New Jersey's 21 counties: Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren County, In New York, Attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout New York's 62 counties. Outside of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, unless attorney Joseph D. Lento is admitted pro hac vice if needed, his assistance may not constitute legal advice or the practice of law. The decision to hire an attorney in Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania counties, New Jersey, New York, or nationwide should not be made solely on the strength of an advertisement. We invite you to contact the Lento Law Firm directly to inquire about our specific qualifications and experience. Communicating with the Lento Law Firm by email, phone, or fax does not create an attorney-client relationship. The Lento Law Firm will serve as your official legal counsel upon a formal agreement from both parties. Any information sent to the Lento Law Firm before an attorney-client relationship is made is done on a non-confidential basis.

Menu