Somerset County Domestic Violence Lawyer
Defining Domestic Violence Laws in New Jersey
Various criminal behaviors constitute domestic violence if they are committed against a close family member or a person the aggressor lives with.
The following people can be charged with domestic violence in New Jersey:
- A spouse or former spouse
- A member of the same household, either currently or ever in the past
- A boyfriend, girlfriend, or former boyfriend/girlfriend
- The other parent of your child
If any of these people has ever harassed, stalked, assaulted, threatened, criminally restrained, kidnapped, or forced unwanted sexual contact on you, or trespassed or broken into your home, you have a basis for a domestic violence charge and for filing for an order of protection.
We are also able to provide legal defense for false allegations of abuse. If you need legal help for domestic violence, call (908) 259-6673 to request a consultation.
How to Recognize Signs of Domestic Violence
Spotting the signs of an abusive individual may prove challenging, as the level of danger may start out relatively low.
At first, a person may slowly try to alienate the other party from his or her friends and family, which could be a sign of an attempt to gain control. While this can be harmful enough on its own, the intentions of the abusive party may worsen with time, potentially leading to threats of violence and, in some cases, to acts of physical abuse.
By the time a person becomes aware of these abusive tendencies, he or she may feel stuck in the relationship or even fear that leaving will bring about disastrous consequences. The abusive party may also seek to draw them back in by offering apologies and gifts, but these offerings don’t necessarily come with a guarantee the behavior will cease.
While studies suggest that the period shortly after leaving an abusive partner can be dangerous, staying with someone out of fear of the consequences could be much more harmful in the long run.
Restraining Orders in Somerset County
A restraining order is a civil protection order that the court issues to keep an abuser away from a victim of domestic violence — this may include the home, workplace and more. The abuse may include verbal, physical and mental or psychological abuse.
Depending on what the judge specifies on a restraining order, a domestic violence victim can obtain several levels of protection:
- Contact in any manner — by phone, in person, at work, home or anywhere else — may be forbidden.
- The court can require the abuser to vacate the residence, even if it is in his or her name.
- The abuser may be ordered to pay expenses related to domestic violence such as medical costs, lost income and more.
- The judge may also remove the children from the presence of such a person.
-
“Steven worked diligently to represent my best interests. He went above and beyond to be sure I understood every detail of every document relevant to my divorce. He spoke to me with respect and in a down-to-earth manner. His efforts resulted in a very favorable decision, weighted on my side of the field. I have already referred Steve and his firm to friends, at least one of whom has hired him. Well done L&L. Thank you.”- Billy M.
-
“I would highly recommend Dan for any case related to Family Law.”- Former Client
-
“Throughout the process, Dan constantly put my interests, goals, and objectives front and center.”- Jay K.
-
“Best law firm you could ever hope to have on your side!!! Dan Lane is my divorce attorney and he is the best lawyer ever! He has literally won every single battle for me!!! Every time I go into the office everyone is so friendly and amazing!!! Dan’s secretary Victoria is the sweetest person ever! She always keeps me on top of everything!! I couldn’t have found a better lawyer than Dan, not once has he let me down on my entire divorce. Dan truly cares about his clients and every single time I have a concern or worry he calls me or emails me and reassures me even if he’s not in the office!! I honestly wish Dan could be my lawyer for everything I ever need to go to court for because he is a winner and the very best!”- Brittany L.
-
“Dan and his staff did a great job handling my divorce. Due to COVID, my previous attorney bailed on me and Dan was able to take over my case and bring it to closure. He was very professional and supportive throughout the entire process. Dan always responds promptly and I highly recommend him and his staff.”- Former Client
-
“- Adam
Dan and his staff were amazing. Truthful and helpful throughout the whole process.
” -
“Not only was Eric able to deliver a satisfactory result in my situation, but he legitimately exceeded expectations.”- Former Client
-
“Dan Lane was great to work with. He was very honest, professional and straight to the point which I appreciated. He was very patient and took the time to explain legal terms that I didn’t quite understand. I felt like he truly cared about my situation and gave me the best advice like he was dealing with a close friend. 100% would recommend anyone using him.”- Jill V.
