How to Find the Right Restraining Order Lawyer for You

September 6, 2022

A restraining order is an important way for people who have been involved in issues related to domestic violence or the threat of violence to get protection. Restraining orders can be used to protect a person of any gender from another individual when they feel their safety or comfort is at risk. However, these tend to be used as a way to protect women from abusive men. According to Research Gate, approximately 72% of active restraining orders were in place to protect a woman from an abusive man. Given the importance of such a legal document for many people, it's important to know what to look for in a restraining order lawyer.

The Lawyer's Experience

A restraining order lawyer should have various kinds of experience with related issues such as divorces, child custody disputes, or criminal cases for battery or domestic violence. It's possible that the attorney will need broad knowledge of areas such as family court procedures and criminal prosecutions to be effective in getting the judge to grant the order. As a general rule, the best lawyers also tend to have several years' worth of experience working with clients in similar situations. This is imperative because a person who is looking for a restraining order may already have the threat of violence if the perpetrator isn't stopped.

The Lawyer's Knowledge

The victim's restraining order lawyer will need to prove that the person to be restrained is guilty of some immediate threat of violence or other harmful actions such as stalking or harassment. Also, there usually needs to be a biological or close relationship between the victim and the person named in the order, although it's possible for additional circumstances to warrant a protective order between individuals with other types of relationships. In most states, the burden of proof for granting the order is reasonable, and a judge will grant the order as long as the rules for filing were followed and there appears to be a legitimate threat. It's important to find a lawyer who's aware of these realities and can best serve your situation and keep you safe.

Anyone who wants more information about the process of obtaining a restraining order can get legal advice from a licensed attorney. Contact Nigel Villanueva today to schedule a consultation.

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3 Legal Protections a Restraining Order Offers in Domestic Violence Cases

July 24, 2025

Domestic violence remains a serious issue that affects people across all backgrounds. According to PlanStreet, more than one in three women and one in four men have experienced physical violence, rape, or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. For those experiencing abuse, a restraining order provides important legal protections that can help create immediate safety and long-term stability. Working with an experienced restraining order lawyer can make a critical difference in securing these protections effectively. Enforce Distance From the Abuser One of the primary legal protections a restraining order offers is requiring the abuser to stay a certain distance away from the victim. This includes places like the victim’s home, workplace, or even a child’s school. By enforcing physical separation, the law aims to reduce opportunities for further violence, intimidation, or harassment. The mandated distance serves as a legal barrier that protects victims from additional harm and can deter the abuser from violating boundaries. Prohibit All Forms of Contact Restraining orders can also prevent the abuser from contacting the victim in any way. This includes phone calls, text messages, emails, social media, or indirect communication through third parties. In today’s digital world, cutting off all forms of communication is vital. Constant threats or manipulation through messages can retraumatize victims and disrupt their healing. A restraining order lawyer can help ensure this no-contact clause is strongly enforced so that victims can begin to rebuild their emotional well-being. Extend Protection to Children In many domestic violence cases, children are also at risk. Restraining orders can include provisions to protect minor children, such as restricting visitation rights or establishing supervised visits. Courts may tailor the order to safeguard the child’s physical and emotional safety. Ensuring the protection of children helps prevent long-term trauma and promotes a healthier, more secure environment for the family. A skilled restraining order lawyer can assist in including appropriate child-related protections in the order. Take the Next Step Toward Safety If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, legal help is available. Restraining orders offer life-saving protections—from enforcing distance, blocking communication, and safeguarding children. Don’t wait to take action. Contact Nigel Villanueva today to speak with a knowledgeable attorney who can guide you through the process and help you reclaim control over your life.