Domestic Violence

The Court has the authority to enter an emergency order when a spouse proves there is danger of serious and immediate injury to that spouse or the children. Relief available under an emergency order includes, but is not limited to, directing the threatening party to refrain from the action, ordering eviction of the threatening party from the household, awarding temporary custody and support of the minor children, and granting to the victim and children possession of the residence or personal property of the parties. Violations of emergency orders may be punished for contempt of court. Law enforcement agencies are required to respond to request for assistance under emergency orders as soon as possible and are authorized to take whatever steps are necessary to protect the victim from further harm.

Domestic violence is a very real and serious threat.  It is not something to be taken lightly or to be threatened when it does not actually take place.  The Courts provide immediate relief to spouses, partners, girlfriends, boyfriends, and other persons in certain classes who are being threatened, abused, harmed or even stalked by a known person.   Your attorney can help you with this process or if you cannot afford an attorney you may also be able to receive some help at your local Domestic Violence center.   There are resources available for victims of abuse and their children.