Restraining Orders

Most family relationships have their share of discord, but not many reach a stage at which someone feels compelled to seek the protection of the legal system. While that person often is genuinely in fear, this also may be a manipulative tactic. San Bernardino and Riverside County restraining order lawyer Gregory H. Comings regularly handles these cases and other criminal matters pertaining to California’s domestic violence laws.

There are actually several types of restraining orders in California. These include criminal protective orders obtained through the district attorney’s office in a criminal case, ordering the defendant not to have any contact with the alleged victim. They also include civil harassment restraining orders, used to stop a person from stalking or otherwise harassing another individual. Another type of restraining order is an emergency protective order (EPO), which is common in domestic violence cases and is valid for only five days. Finally, there are temporary restraining orders, which are also common in domestic violence cases. Although they begin as a short-term mandate, TROs can be extended for a period of years. Regardless of the type of restraining order that is issued against a defendant, the legal purpose and intent of the order is the same: to keep the defendant away from the victim and give the purported victim peace of mind, knowing that the defendant will be subject to severe consequences if the requirements of the order are not met. A restraining order attorney can advise San Bernardino and Riverside County residents on other differences among these orders.

Seeking a restraining order against someone sends a message that the relationship is over. Of course, that is not necessarily a bad thing. People have a right to leave a relationship if they so choose. However, being the subject of a restraining order or being accused of an act of domestic violence that necessitates such a means of intervention can be very embarrassing and can complicate not only the relationship between the “victim” and the defendant but also the defendant’s relationship with their children. Even work situations can be affected, especially if the defendant is not allowed into their own home to retrieve clothing, tools, or other items necessary for them to perform their job.

A person who violates a restraining order faces jail time, fines, and other penalties. Domestic violence charges can also result in the defendant being ordered to undergo counseling, perform community service, reimburse medical expenses incurred by the victim, or pay money to a shelter for battered spouses. A criminal conviction can cause problems for the defendant when it comes to seeking employment, housing, or certain educational opportunities, especially if the offense in question was a felony.

If you have been accused of domestic violence or have recently been served with a restraining order, you need to talk to an attorney as soon as possible. You have a limited time to assert your legal rights and protect yourself against the allegations made by your former partner. Results-oriented criminal defense attorney Gregory H. Comings can help. Call us at (951) 686-3457 or contact us online to schedule an appointment to discuss your legal matter. All communications are held in the strictest confidence, and we will work hard to protect your future. We also advocate for people who need a sex crime lawyer or assistance in fighting charges of drug crimes or white collar crimes. Unlike some other law firms, we will not just tell you what you want to hear in order to justify a large retainer – we take pride in always being candid with our clients. Our San Bernardino and Riverside County restraining order attorney will tell you the truth about what he believes will happen if your case goes to court so that you can make an informed decision about your next steps.