If you've been served with a restraining order, you may be feeling confused and overwhelmed about what to do next. In Cumberland County, you'll be expected to attend a hearing at the Cumberland County Courthouse in Bridgeton, where a judge will hear out the person who served you with the restraining order. Based on the person's evidence, the judge will decide whether a restraining order is truly necessary. For the best possible outcome, you'll want to hire a skilled attorney to work on your behalf.
Types of Restraining Orders
In Cumberland County, there are two types of restraining orders you, or someone you love, may be served with: temporary and final restraining orders.
Temporary Restraining Orders
A temporary restraining order (TRO) is served by law enforcement officials after a victim files for one while reporting an alleged domestic violence incident. TRO's usually last about ten days and will state the date of the initial hearing. At this first hearing, a judge will determine if a restraining order is necessary to separate the defendant from the supposed victim until they can outline the next steps.
Final Restraining Orders
A final restraining order (FRO) is issued at a final hearing if the court decides that the alleged victim needs further protection. FRO's are usually permanent, and a judge will only decide it is necessary if: (1) the parties were in a domestic relationship, (2) the defendant committed a predicate act of domestic violence, and (3) the judge found there's an immediate need for the FRO to prevent further domestic violence.
What Are the Potential Consequences of a Restraining Order?
Each type of restraining order can have severe consequences, but while TROs are usually temporary, FROs are almost always permanent and would require a court hearing to have amended. If your FRO is adjudicated as necessary, it might also decide your child custody issues, your removal from shared spaces with the other party, and how much support you owe the other party – whether it be spousal or child support. Additionally, you will be fingerprinted, photographed, placed into a police database that explains the FRO, and owe several court fees that could span a significant length of time.
Restraining Order Hearing in Bridgeton
When you, or someone you love, is served with a restraining order in Cumberland County, you will need to visit the Cumberland County Courthouse at 60 West Broad Street, Bridgeton, NJ 08302 for your hearing. This type of proceeding can be overwhelming, especially if you don't know what to expect. Make sure to arrive early so you can over any last-minute prep with your attorney and have ample time to find parking and locate the courtroom.
How an Experienced Restraining Order Attorney in Bridgeton Can Help
Attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm have years of experience working on restraining order cases. They know how scary this process can be, which is why they work tirelessly to build defense plans for their clients to ensure the best possible outcome. The consequences of a restraining can be long lasting. Having a knowledgeable attorney to walk you through the process while also protecting your current and future rights from unnecessary infringement is essential. Call 888.535.3686 today to schedule your first consultation. Don't try to navigate the unknown alone; let the attorneys at the Lento Law Firm help.
