Domestic Violence Cases in New Jersey | What You Need to Know
In the months following the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing shutdowns across the country, New Jersey, among other states, has seen a spike in domestic violence cases. This is not only abhorrent, but it is also incredibly frightening for all those who have fallen victim to domestic abusers. Fortunately, though things may seem quite scary now, the truth is, you can take action. You can get help. Do not let yourself feel afraid in your own home, because you have plenty of resources at your disposal that can help you reach the safe haven you and your family deserve. Our Chatham family law attorneys are one of those resources. Please read on and reach out to our firm to learn more about how you can obtain a restraining order and how our firm can help you through every step of the legal process ahead. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How can I obtain a restraining order in New Jersey?
After an incident of domestic violence or abuse occurs, the first thing you should do is seek out a restraining order. There are multiple ways you can do this. If your situation is an emergency and you are in imminent danger, you should call the police at once. You can report the incident either at your local courthouse or to the police. You will then receive a temporary restraining order against the individual. From here, generally within 10 days, you will attend a hearing where a judge will decide whether the restraining order should be made permanent. Our firm can work to ensure you have all the evidence needed to make this order permanent, whether it be text messages, phone calls, voicemails, pictures/videos, medical documents, or any other form of evidence that proves the act of violence occurred to help ensure the order is made permanent. Once the order is made permanent, the abuser will be required, by law, to stay away from you and your family. Keep in mind that New Jersey law also permits victims of domestic violence to take both civil and criminal action against their abusers. Our firm can help inform you of your options.
What acts are classified as domestic violence in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, there are several acts that can be classified as domestic violence, including the following:
- Homicide (NJSA 2C:11-1 et seq);
- Assault (NJSA 2C:12-1);
- Terroristic threats (NJSA 2C:12-3);
- Kidnapping (NJSA 2C:13-1);
- Criminal restraint (NJSA 2C:13-2);
- Sexual assault (NJSA 2C:14-2);
- Robbery (NJSA 2C:15-1);
- Criminal sexual contact (NJSA 2C:14-3);
- Lewdness (NJSA 2C:14-4);
- Burglary (NJSA 2C:18-2);
- Harassment (NJSA 2C:33-4);
- Stalking P.L.1992, c.209 (C.2C:12-10);
- Criminal trespass (NJSA 2C:18-3);
- Any other crime involving risk of death or serious bodily injury to a person protected under the “Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991,” P.L.1991, c.261 (C.2C:25-17 et al.).
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
If you are considering a divorce and need an attorney who can effectively represent you through every step you can count on Lazor Rantas, PC. We proudly serve clients throughout New Jersey as they navigate divorce and family law matters. To discuss your case with an experienced legal team, contact Lazor Rantas, PC today.
