What To Do When Someone Gets A Restraining Order Against You
If you are the subject of a restraining order, know that it is a serious matter that requires your immediate attention. You do, however, have significant legal rights. If someone seeks a restraining order against you due to alleged domestic violence or based on accusations of harassment, you have the right to be notified, to have a court hearing, and to defend yourself. A restraining order request should never be ignored. Instead, you should learn about your legal rights and options, consult with a criminal defense lawyer, and do your best to get the best possible outcome for your case. However, if the protected party accuses you of violating the restraining order, then you may be charged with a criminal offense. Harassment Restraining Order Defense Minneapolis MN
Here is what you should do if someone has filed for a restraining order against you:
Abide By the Temporary Restraining Order
If a restraining order has been filed against you, then you should follow all of the orders in it, such as not having any communication with the petitioner, even if you believe you have a valid defense and will defeat an attempt to make the temporary order permanent. Violating the temporary restraining order in any way will only make your case harder to defend and can result in additional criminal offenses or charges being brought against you. In the meantime, though, you should call an attorney so that you can prepare for the permanent restraining order hearing right away.
Gather Evidence That Will Help Your Case
It’s important to try and collect any evidence connected to the incidents or events mentioned in the petition, and to gather any documents or records that may be relevant to the case that show where you were and what you were doing at the time of the incident(s). Make a list of potential witnesses, including anyone you believe has information about the incident, the accusations, and/or the petitioner, and get their contact information. The reason this is vital is because, if the petitioner has made false accusations against you, you will have evidence that will help to poke holes in their testimony. Any and all evidence that you have that can be used to refute their testimony will help to ensure that you will be able to get the best outcome possible for your case.
Discuss Your Case With A Criminal Defense Attorney
Lastly, when a restraining order has been filed against you, it’s absolutely vital that you hire a defense attorney who specializes in criminal law to assist you with your case, in order to ensure a successful outcome for your case. Your capacity to defend against a permanent restraining order will be dependent on your knowledge of the law in your jurisdiction. Refuting the accusations leveled against you will require tangible evidence and convincing arguments. Therefore, having an experienced criminal attorney on your side, someone who knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system and criminal laws, is absolutely crucial for your case.
If a restraining order has been filed against you, then you should contact Lauren Campoli, the best criminal defense attorney in Minneapolis Minnesota, today, to discuss the details of your case.