If you've recently been served with a restraining order, you may be wondering about what's next. If you received a temporary restraining order (TRO), then you should also have received notice of a scheduled hearing within ten days of the TRO. A restraining order can have severe ramifications, and so it's essential to find an attorney who can assist you with this challenging time.
What Are The Potential Consequences Of A Restraining Order?
There are consequences and penalties associated with receiving a restraining order or violating a restraining order in Woodbury. First, it's important to understand that a restraining order violation could be something as simple as sending a text message. Also, if you reconcile with your ex, that doesn't make the restraining order magically disappear. Violating a restraining order may result in criminal charges, per criminal contempt of N.J.S.A. 2C: 29-9(b). This is a fourth-degree felony. Other potential consequences include losing the ability to own firearms, suspended child custody, or an order not to return home. The court takes domestic violence allegations seriously, and you should, too.
Where Is The Restraining Order Hearing In Woodbury?
If you have a restraining order hearing for Gloucester County in Woodbury, you will want to make sure that you go to the correct courthouse. Plan to allow time for parking and arriving early enough that you do not have to rush. The address is: 1 North Broad Street Woodbury, NJ 08096
Temporary Restraining Orders
Temporary restraining orders may be issued in several ways. First, a judge may issue one through the Family Part of the Superior Court in the county in which you reside. This usually occurs Monday through Friday between 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM. If it is outside of that window, the TRO goes through the Municipal Court via the State or local police department. The sheriff or police serve the order, and the TRO has an expiration date. At the hearing, within ten days, the judge will determine if the court will grant a Final Restraining Order.
Final Restraining Orders
A final restraining order (FRO) permanently replaces a TRO and lasts until the Courts change it. At the TRO hearing, it is imperative that you have an attorney by your side who can help defend you against the allegations. The strength of the evidence and arguments will help the judge make their decision. An FRO has long-lasting consequences.
Call An Experienced Woodbury Restraining Order Attorney
You should not face your hearing alone if you've been served with a TRO or FRO. With such high stakes, you want the presentation of evidence and arguments to come from a skilled and experienced attorney. Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm have years of civil and criminal defense experience. He's assisted thousands of clients in fighting for justice over the years. Call today at 888.535.3686 or reach out online so that we can help with your case.
