New Jersey takes domestic violence very seriously and has many measures put into place to help victims of such abuse. The New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991 allows victims to seek both civil and criminal relief from their abusers. When an individual is the victim of domestic abuse in New Jersey, it is important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible to ensure one’s protection.
Civil Relief vs. Criminal Relief
Though victims of domestic violence can request both civil relief and criminal relief, they should understand the differences between the two. Civil relief will grant the individual a Temporary Restraining Order. Some of the reasons for which a Temporary Restraining Order may be necessary is due to harassment, assault, mental abuse, terroristic threats, and more. A restraining order will ensure that the accused does not have access to the victim, any children they share, the home, or any firearms. The court will have to hear the case to determine whether the Temporary Restraining Order needs to become a Final Restraining Order, making it permanent.
Criminal relief, on the other hand, will allow the victim to press criminal charges against the accused. The complaint can be filed either in the court where the victim lives, where the accused lives, where an incident of violence occurred, or in a location where the victim is seeking shelter.
If you are the victim of domestic violence in New Jersey, contact our firm today so we can help get you the help you need for a safe future.
Ross and Calandrillo, LLC is a full-service divorce, family, and real estate law firm located in Mountainside, New Jersey. For strong legal representation in all of your divorce or family law matters, contact Ross and Calandrillo, LLC to schedule a consultation.
