What Are Your Options in the Instance of Domestic Violence?

What Are Your Options in the Instance of Domestic Violence?

In that state of California, domestic violence is taken very seriously. There are numerous protections offered to victims, but it important to act quickly and have an experienced family law attorney like Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP on your side.

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is defined as physical, verbal, emotional or psychological abuse suffered at the hands of a family member or partner. It is important to note that domestic violence does not just refer to people who are romantically involved. Family violence, including parent on child, child on parent, sibling on sibling, etc., are also classified as domestic violence.

Get Immediate Help to Protect Yourself and Your Children

In the case of domestic violence, it is important to get help immediately to protect yourself and your children. Situations can quickly increase in volatility and it is in everyone’s best interest to get an order of protection. An experienced family law attorney like Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP can help you do just that.

Types of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

There are three types of domestic violence restraining orders that are able to provide protection to those who have become a victim of domestic violence. These include:

  • Emergency Protective Order: Issued by law enforcement officers and is valid for 5 days
  • Temporary Restraining Order: Issued by family law court and is valid for approximately 21 days
  • Permanent Restraining Order: Considered by a district attorney and can last up to five years

No matter what type of restraining order you have in place, if violated, the abuser can be found in contempt of court. This means they can be charged with a misdemeanor and even be sentenced to up to a year in jail.

Who Can Apply for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order?

Anyone who has suffered any type of abuse or even been the subject of a threat of abuse at the hands of a family member or intimate partner can apply for a restraining order. This includes spouses or domestic partners, ex-spouses, current or former dating partners, parent of your child, or close relatives by either blood or marriage. As a parent, you can also apply for a restraining order for your child if they have suffered abuse or been the subject of a threat.

Trust the Experts at Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP for Superior Representation

It is important to act quickly in the instance of domestic violence. Having an experienced family law attorney like Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP on your side is also essential to ensure you get the maximum protection possible. If you or a child have been the victim of domestic violence, contact us today at 909-482-1422 to set up your initial consultation today. We will work tirelessly to ensure you have the necessary domestic violence restraining order in place to keep you protected.