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.
-
“Upon meeting Steven Lane, he saw me right away and I could tell he was the lawyer I wanted to work with. He was very professional and personable. He kept in constant communication, even on weekends when I was panicking about an issue.”- Joseph O.
-
“I can’t say enough about Dan and the Lane & Lane firm. Dan carefully listened to all my concerns and goals throughout this process and explained everything that was required to meet my goals. Dan is always available whenever I call him for any questions or concerns. I would recommend Dan and the Lane & Lane firm to anyone looking to get any legal advice in the state of NJ, they are top-notch. Thank you, Lane, & Lane for your outstanding service.”- Satish P.
-
“It was a pleasure working with Dan Lane and his team. They were professional and went above and beyond to ensure that my case proceeded smoothly and in a timely fashion without any judgement. This is a great starting point for anyone looking for legal counsel for a good value with exceptional results. It is clear from the get-go that Dan is a hard-working organized individual who can think quickly on his feet.”- Former Client
-
“I can't say enough positive things about this firm. I dealt primarily with Eric Lane and he was nothing short of a "consummate professional". He was there for me at every turn in my case, ready to provide whatever support was needed by me. Not only was he able to deliver a satisfactory result in my situation, but he legitimately exceeded expectations. I don't hope to have to require legal representation again anytime soon, but if I do there is no doubt that I will be turning to Eric and company at Lane & Lane.”- Christian P.
-
“Eric definitely had my best interests at heart.”- Austin
-
“Eric was recommended to me in 2013 when I was going through a very difficult divorce and custody fight. He’s been with me every step of the way. It’s been a long journey and he’s been supportive and has continued to fight for me. He’s made a very difficult process a bit less stressful and easier. Always willing to talk to me about my concerns. I can’t say enough about him. He’s been amazing. I definitely would recommend this law office to anyone who is dealing with the stress of divorce.”- Jessica C.
-
“If you are needing a lawyer for your matter, look no further than Eric and the team at Lane & Lane, LLC!”- Jonathan L.
-
“I would highly recommend Dan for any case related to Family Law.”- Former Client
