Domestic Violence Lawyer in New York

New York Family Court Attorney

New York Family Court matters related to domestic violence can be complicated to deal with. Your safety is a concern, as is the full protection of your legal rights in this important matter. By going to your local Family Court, you can apply for an order of protection that will prohibit your abuser from coming into contact with you or harming you in any way. You can file a petition for an order of protection if you have been the victim of domestic violence, which is defined as some form of abuse or violence committed by a family member, spouse or ex-spouse, parent of a shared child or person you are in an intimate relationship with. There is no fee to file a petition for an order of protection in Family Court.

Due to the sensitive nature of domestic violence cases and the fact that a petitioner’s safety may be in danger, the Court may issue a temporary order of protection before the respondent (the person you are filing against) is served with the papers. This temporary order of protection usually stays in place until you and the respondent return to court to address the issue at hand. If, upon returning to Family Court, the judge determines that domestic violence was committed, the order may last for two to five years. The judge may also order restitution of up to $10,000, medical expenses and the respondent’s participation in drug or alcohol counseling or a batterer’s education program.

Attorney for Domestic Violence Cases in New York Family Court

Choosing to involve an attorney to assist you with your domestic violence case is important. The respondent has the right to a hearing after being served an order of protection. He or she may already have hired an attorney and may be ready to challenge the allegations of abuse. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can help ensure that your case is presented properly and that you can prove that domestic violence has occurred. This is crucial if you would like for your order of protection to be put in place on a permanent basis.

Contact a New York Domestic Violence Attorney at our firm for help with your case.