Texas Protective Order Lawyer
Looking Out for You and Your Family
If you’re experiencing domestic violence, know that you’re not alone, and there are ways to get help. If you’re in immediate danger, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1 (800) 799-7233. Once you’re safe, the next step is to speak with a Texas family law attorney about securing a protective order.
A Texas protective order is designed to safeguard individuals from those who may wish to cause them harm. Sadly, this is often an abusive partner. Coming to terms with the fact that someone you care about has become a threat can be deeply emotional and overwhelming. No matter what you’re facing, we want you to know that your safety will always be our top priority.
How A Protective Order Can Help
Under Texas law, individuals can seek temporary protective orders, which can last up to 20 days, or long-term protective orders, also known as restraining orders, that last up to two years. These orders can be issued to prevent a range of harmful actions, including family violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, and stalking.
Family violence is an umbrella term that encompasses many things, such as serious threats of harm. It also includes relationships between blood relatives, in-laws, ex-spouses, co-parents, foster children, and anyone who has ever lived in the same household.
Texas law also allows for injunction orders, which prevent any contact between the parties involved, and orders that exclude the abusive partner from certain areas, such as where children may need to be exchanged. Protective orders can also prevent an abuser from contacting their children and may require the abuser to attend counseling. Additionally, the court may suspend the abuser’s firearm license.
If you believe a protective order is necessary, you can file for one in the county where you or the offender resides. Applications can be made through an attorney, legal aid, or any adult household member. The Department of Human and Regulatory Services can also file on your behalf. These orders are designed to prevent further harm and provide a layer of protection during a difficult time.
The Process of Filing A Protective Order
To file for a protective order, you will need to provide certain details to the court, including the names of the victims, the counties where they live, the full names and details of the offenders, the relationship between the victims and offenders, and the nature of the violence taking place.
There is no fee for filing a protective order in Texas, as the state prioritizes your safety. Fees may be charged to the offender, but never to the victim. Once you file the petition, the court will schedule a hearing, usually within two weeks. In cases of immediate danger, the court may issue an ex parte order, which provides instant protection.
If a protective order is violated, it’s important to contact the police immediately. While the order doesn’t physically protect you, it authorizes law enforcement to take action, arrest the offender, and pursue legal consequences. Defying a protective order is a criminal offense and can lead to fines and jail time, with additional penalties if the violator has committed violence.
If you or someone you know has been affected by family violence, filing a protective order can be an important step toward ensuring their safety. A Texas protective order lawyer can guide you through the process. Also, if the order is violated, they can represent you in court to ensure your best interests are being upheld.
If you need help filing or enforcing a protective order, contact Eaton Family Law Group in Houston, Tomball, Katy, or Sugar Land today. Defending your family from all forms of legal and physical harm is our top priority.
