​You Don't Have to Stay

​Options

Victims of domestic violence have several options to get out of their circumstance.  The law and the Allison Family Law Center stand in strong opposition to domestic violence and in support of real victims.  We are also aware of how false allegations of domestic violence are used as a tool to hurt the opposing party.  Skilled lawyers can tell the difference and argue effectively for their clients.  We have years of support in dealing with domestic violence cases and have dealt with cases ranging from a wife being forcibly sold as a sex worker by her husband, to false allegations being used as a tool to break up the relationship of the opposing party.  Our experience allows us to effectively assess and present cases and defenses in the best interest of our client and the situation at hand.

​Restraining Order

A restraining order can be achieved on an emergency basis and can be as broad or as narrow as is necessary to provide the victim reasonable protection.  This could include an order as simple as a peaceful contact order, where the perpetrator of the domestic violence can only have peaceful contact with the victim to as harsh as a full stay-away order and no contact order.  Temporary restraining orders are typically a good idea, because no matter how minor the domestic violence appears, the time and space will allow cooler heads to prevail.  It could also help get a victim away from a perpetrator that will attempt to control her and her abilities to report.  After a temporary restraining order is granted or denied, there will be a hearing within a few weeks.  This hearing will be for the judge to decide a reasonable time for the restraining order to be in place.  Typically the restraining order is denied or extended one to five years and potentially indefinitely.

​Custody/Visitation, Support, and Attorney Fees

Custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, and attorney fees can be ordered at the restraining order hearing.  These orders can be received within days to prevent any disruption the victim may experience due to their separation from the perpetrator.  An experienced attorney can help navigate victims through their options and get them the help they need.