Restraining orders are a useful tool for judges to control seemingly dangerous situations between people without the need for separate criminal charges. While an initial restraining order is not a criminal matter, any violations of the restraining order can result in criminal charges. If you are facing a restraining order violation, then it is important to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.

Dangerous Love Triangle Ends Badly

A Hamburg, NJ man was recently sentenced to eight years in prison for stabbing a 14-year-old boy in an altercation at the Gingerbread House. The 21-year-old defendant accepted responsibility for his actions but pointed to mental health issues and a bipolar episode that led to the assault. He also believed that his pregnant girlfriend was seeing the teen behind his back. The 20-year-old is facing her own set of criminal charges for child endangerment, sexual assault, and violating a restraining order the teen had previously obtained against her. She is alleged to have knowingly brought the teen and the defendant together, which resulted in the dangerous exchange.

How a Restraining Order Violation Can Result in Criminal Charges

A restraining order is a civil action that is ordered by a Superior Court judge. It does not appear on any criminal record as it is not a criminal matter. Once a violation is alleged, however, then criminal charges are likely. In New Jersey, if a restraining order is violated, then the alleged violator can be charged with criminal contempt. Someone is guilty of criminal contempt when he or she purposely or knowingly disobeys a court order such as a restraining order. This is a felony charge of the fourth degree under New Jersey law. If someone is convicted of criminal contempt, then he or she will face up to 18 months in prison along with a fine of up to $10,000.

As you can see in the case above, the girlfriend in the middle of this love triangle faces criminal charges for violating the restraining order, along with other criminal charges for allegations made by the teen victim despite not participating in the assault that led to the prison sentence for the man. It appears from the report that she had a hand in bringing the two together, and any contact with someone protected by a restraining order will lead to a violation. If you have questions about restraining orders, then call us at the Lento Law Firm so we can help!

Why Hiring the Lento Law Firm is the Right Choice

If you are facing a restraining order violation, then it is important to speak to an attorney immediately. Attorney Joseph D. Lento has helped countless people across New Jersey fight their cases. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 to learn why hiring Lento Law is the right choice to help you.