Criminal and Civil Restraining Orders
When domestic violence threatens a person’s well-being, there are a few different options available for victims if they want to pursue legal protection from further abuse. In particular, restraining orders offer a victim a legal promise that any further harassment or violence will result in extremely punitive measures. However, there are noticeable differences between courts in terms of restraining orders. Considering that domestic violence may carry both civil and criminal consequences, each court may handle a restraining order separately.
For additional information regarding your rights if someone has abused you or a member of your family, contact the Austin divorce lawyers of Slater Kennon, LLP, today at 512-472-2431.
Issuing Criminal and Civil Protective Orders
A restraining order, also known as a protective order, provides those who have faced abuse with legal protection from additional violence. Although these orders rarely involve the active watch of a law enforcement officer, any proof of violation may end in serious criminal charges to be filed against an offender as well as police response to distress calls. In order to obtain these orders, the following may occur:
- In civil cases, a protective order is requested and issued by a judge
- Emergency civil orders may be issued with few restrictions
- Criminal protective orders may be requested by a prosecutor
- District attorneys may file charges against an abuser without the victim’s consent
Contact Us
If someone has attacked you or threatened to harm you, there are legal options available to protect yourself and your family. To learn more about your rights, contact the Austin divorce attorneys of Slater Kennon, LLP, by calling 512-472-2431 today.