Accused of Domestic Violence in South Jersey?
If you have been named as a defendant on a Domestic Violence Complaint and Temporary Restraining Order in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester or Mercer County, the consequences are serious and immediate. Do not wait to get legal representation.
What Happens After an Accusation
New Jersey’s Prevention of Domestic Violence Act (the Act) is among the toughest in the country. If law enforcement responds to an alleged incident and observes signs of physical violence, the officer is required to arrest the alleged aggressor — regardless of the circumstances. The alleged victim is then offered the opportunity to file a complaint and apply for a restraining order, which is typically granted the same day.
A Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) can immediately bar you from your home (even if you own it), from any contact with the plaintiff, from contact with your children, and from your workplace if you and the plaintiff work at the same location.
Consequences of a Final Restraining Order
A final restraining order (FRO) is permanent and does not expire. Vacating one is extremely difficult and generally requires the plaintiff’s consent or costly litigation. Entry of an FRO can result in:
- Permanent surrender of all firearms and firearms purchaser ID cards
- Loss of your home or the right occupy it, regardless if you are the sole owner
- Inclusion in the domestic violence offender registry, accessible to law enforcement and future employers
- Restrictions on travel, including additional screening by the TSA
- Significant impact on custody and parenting time with your children
- Up to 16 additional forms of court-imposed relief
Violating any provision of an FRO — including any attempt to contact the plaintiff — is contempt of court and carries a mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail per offense.
False Accusations and Litigation Tactics
The NJ Supreme Court and appellate courts have acknowledged that restraining orders are sometimes used as a strategic tool in divorce and custody disputes rather than as a protective shield. If you believe you have been falsely accused, an experienced attorney can identify inconsistencies, gather evidence, and mount an effective defense at the FRO hearing.
Talk to Our New Jersey Attorneys
At Musulin Groves & Greenfield, our attorneys have decades of collective experience defending individuals accused of domestic violence. We understand what is at stake and will advocate aggressively on your behalf.
Contact Musulin Groves & Greenfield, today.
Call 609-267-0070 or contact us online.
We serve clients throughout Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Mercer County—including Haddonfield, Medford, Moorestown, Mt. Laurel, Marlton, Shamong, Tabernacle, Pemberton, Maple Shade, Delran, Delanco, and Cinnaminson.