Domestic violence accusations can drastically change your life. You might face serious legal consequences, including protective orders that limit your freedom and affect your daily routine.
Knowing what to expect and how to handle this difficult situation can help you avoid additional legal problems.
Understanding protective orders
In California, a protective order is a court document that can restrict many aspects of your liberty. These orders can last for different periods and have various restrictions, but all carry significant consequences. If you’re subject to a protective order, you might face:
- Contact restrictions: You may face prohibitions on communicating with a protected person, including phone calls, texts, emails or social media interactions.
- Housing changes: The law might require you to leave your shared home.
- Child custody impacts: A protective order may limit your ability to see your children through supervised visits only or temporary loss of custody rights.
- Firearm prohibition: You may have to surrender any firearms you own and refrain from purchasing new ones for the order’s duration.
- Professional consequences: Your job or schooling could be at risk, especially in certain fields.
Breaking a protective order can lead to more criminal charges, fines or jail time. It’s important to follow the order’s rules strictly, even if the accuser tries to contact you.
Staying out of more trouble
Taking active steps to protect yourself can lower the risk of more legal problems. Here are some key actions you should consider:
- Stopping all communication with the accuser
- Staying away from places mentioned in the order
- Keeping a record of your daily activities
- Taking up anger management or domestic violence prevention classes
- Avoiding alcohol and drugs
These actions can show that you’re trying to improve yourself and might help your case. They also demonstrate your commitment to following the law and court orders.
Dealing with domestic violence accusations means carefully handling both the legal system and your personal life. You can work toward a better outcome by understanding protective orders and taking steps to avoid more legal trouble.
