If you are dealing with someone who is physically or emotionally abusive towards you, then getting an order of protection is the smart thing to do. It is important that you stand up for yourself and take the legal route because an order of protection will help you significantly. Before gaining an order of protection you should consult with an experienced family attorney to give you the best advice on how to go about it.
A legal order of protection is a document that protects you from someone who has abused you or someone that you think may abuse you. The order of protection enforces the fact that your abuser or potential abuser cannot come into contact with you or any of your household members as well as your workplace, home or child’s school. It will also allow you to collect your belongings with police protection if you need to do so as well as pay your lawyer as well as any damages caused to you. There are two types of order of protection to get a Family Court order of protection; you would go to either the Family Court or the Probation Department. The Probation Department helps individuals to fill out the order of protection petitions. Once you have filed the petition, you will appear in court. A judge will review the petition and decide whether or not your case warrants a temporary order of protection. The order of protection usually lasts for a year but sometimes they can last up to five years. If anything in your situation changes then you can bring it up with the court to change your order of protection.
Having a court issue an order of protection is a very serious matter whether it be within the criminal court or family court. Order of protection are very important and are a great way to ensure your safety if you ever feel threatened. Having an experienced attorney in your corner to guide you through the process of obtaining one is also extremely helpful.
