North Carolina Protective Orders
If your spouse has become physically abusive or you feel threatened, you can obtain a domestic violence protective order the same day or the next morning. These orders can give abuse victims a great deal of power. Unfortunately, they can also be misused.
At Kennedy Law Associates in Charlotte, North Carolina, our lawyers represent victims of domestic abuse. We also represent men and women who have been accused of domestic violence.
What Is a Domestic Violence Protective Order?
In North Carolina, a domestic violence protective order is a restraining order that protects you from physical or emotional abuse from any person with whom you have a domestic relationship. The abuser can be removed from your house and ordered not to contact you, or come within a certain distance of you.
There are two types of protective orders:
- Temporary protective order: You can obtain temporary protection by convincing a judge that there is a serious and immediate threat to you or your child. The other party does not have to be present in court, and does not have a right to defend himself or herself. This order usually lasts about 10 days.
- Final protective order: After about 10 days, the judge who granted your temporary order will hold a hearing to determine if the temporary order should continue to remain in effect. The alleged abuser will have an opportunity to defend himself or herself at this hearing. A final protective order lasts up to one year and can be extended.
What if I Am Falsely Accused of Abuse?
If you are accused of domestic violence, it's important to seek immediate representation by an experienced lawyer.
A domestic violence protective order can have a devastating effect on your life and your employment. You can be kicked out of your home and barred from seeing your children. If you work in a public setting, you may even lose your job.
For More Information About Domestic Violence
For more information, or to schedule a consultation with our Charlotte domestic violence attorneys, call 704-512-0619 or complete our contact form.
