In 1982, the state of New Jersey passed the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, conceived to protect victims of domestic violence. The law includes a provision that permits victims to obtain a restraining order which restricts the contact an alleged offender can have with a victim.
Thousands of temporary and final restraining orders are issued in Ocean County courts every year. If you find yourself on the receiving end of a restraining order, its issuance will undoubtedly have a profound effect on your life. At worst, defendants have found themselves unable to return to their own homes and have been kept from seeing their children.
Types of Restraining Orders in New Jersey
There are two types of restraining orders in New Jersey: Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) and Final Restraining Orders (FROs). A judge ultimately determines the issuance of both.
TROs
If this is your first rodeo, there's a high likelihood that you've been issued a TRO. This means you've been served with an order and the date of the final hearing, which should be held sometime within the next few weeks. It's recommended that you cooperate when law enforcement eventually seizes your firearms.
If you live with the person who sought the TRO, you won't be able to return to your home while the order is in effect. It's important to note that even though you may own the residence or if you were there first, with a TRO in effect, you'll still be required to move out.
TROs last until a judge issues a FRO, removes it, or issues a further court order.
FROs
FROs are a permanent replacement of TROs. In New Jersey, there is no time limit on FROs. Before these orders are implemented, what's known as a “final hearing” will be held at the Ocean County Superior Court. Both you and your ex will be given an opportunity to provide testimony to consider in the decision to issue (or refute issuing) a FRO.
To say that you should have a criminal defense attorney by your side during this hearing is an understatement. These hearings are decided by the strength of either side's arguments and evidence. An attorney can build a solid defense for you that can significantly turn the tide of this legal battle.
Violating a Restraining Order
If you're thinking about contacting your ex despite a TRO or FRO, it'd be in your best interest to reconsider. Violating a restraining order is a criminal offense in OceanCounty. You'll be charged with criminal contempt charges that could potentially result in jail time and hefty fines.
Have You Been Issued a Restraining Order? Contact the Lento Law Firm Today
The threat of domestic violence is a serious matter that shouldn't be undermined. Due to the nature of these cases, however, much of what transpired is up for speculation. Essentially, it's your word against your ex's, and in a situation with such high stakes, it's imperative you have reliable legal counsel to defend you.
Contact the Lento Law Firm today at (888) 535-3686 for a consultation.
