Restraining Orders

If you are the victim of domestic or repeat violence, you should do everything in your power to immediately protect yourself. When physical violence occurs; if a immediate threat of physical violence is made; and/or if stalking occurs between a married couple, a formerly married couple, a dating couple, family members, people who have a child in common, or even friend, neighbors and co-workers, then immediate legal action must be taken to prevent domestic violence, repeat violence, or dating violence. There are civil proceedings available to obtain a restraining order (i.e– an injunction for protection against domestic violence or repeat violence as is it called under Florida law) to prevent future violence and protect you. These domestic violence injunctions can also grant custody of children, award child support and spousal support, and give exclusive use and possession of a home to you. Normally, a domestic violence injunction is granted when there is an immediate and present danger of imminent harm which exists. Restraining orders have both civil and criminal ramifications. The Law Offices of Matthew Z. Martell, P.A. have experience in assisting existing clients seeking to obtain, defend, or modify such restraining orders. Our firm provides effective, compassionate, and prompt legal assistance and counseling to victims of domestic violence. Alternatively, we also realize that false accusations of domestic violence are sometimes presented for gain an unfair advantage in legal disputes. In such cases, we are available to help you to defend against such accusations which could substantially affect your child custody and visitation rights, as well as your right to access and live in your own home. Do not wait to call if you are affected by domestic violence or try to handle it on your own. We are highly experienced in dealing with restraining orders and domestic violence and we are here to help.