Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence Lawyers in Bergen County, NJ

Compassionate Divorce & Family Law Firm in New Jersey

In cases of domestic violence, so much is on the line for both the victim and the accused, as your reputation, career, personal relationships, child custody arrangement, and most frighteningly, your safety, may hang in the balance. When relationships are strained or severed, through divorces, break-ups, or even escalated arguments, domestic violence incidents can occur, compelling law enforcement intervention and bringing both parties into a legal process that neither likely anticipated. Whether you are the alleged victim of domestic violence or the alleged perpetrator, you are protected under the law from threats to your safety or false accusations, whatever the case may be. You have the right to stand before a judge and have your voice heard. You may present evidence on your behalf, provide witnesses who will testify to the validity of your statements, and ultimately, seek justice. To ensure that you are thoroughly protected and advocated for, it is in your best interest to have an experienced legal professional in your corner.

At Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, our seasoned attorneys come from diverse backgrounds, many of whom have served in positions within the New Jersey Family Court System. With a specialization in divorce and family law, we have dedicated our lives and careers solely to this area of practice to garner as much knowledge and experience as possible. Utilizing our extensive and diversified experience in the realm of family law, we collaborate to develop the most effective strategies that serve our clients’ needs, often dealing with overlapping issues such as divorce and domestic violence. At our firm, we adhere to a standard of exceptional professionalism but refuse to lose the person in the process. With our team behind you, you will find support, compassion, and continued guidance throughout the legal process, with a personalized approach tailored to suit your specific concerns and priorities. To discuss your case with a member of our skilled legal team, contact our Bergen County offices at 201-397-1750. Consultations are always provided free of charge.

Domestic Violence and Abuse

Domestic violence does not distinguish between age, gender, or sexual orientation, and it is not limited to married couples. In fact, the New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act applies to a vast array of relationships, including:

  • Spouses or former spouses
  • Dating couples or previously dating couples
  • Current or former members of the same household
  • Parents of a shared child

For an act of domestic violence to occur, the offender must commit any of the following criminal offenses against the victim:

  • Homicide
  • Simple Assault
  • Aggravated Assault
  • Terroristic threats
  • Kidnapping
  • Criminal restraint
  • False imprisonment
  • Sexual assault
  • Criminal sexual contact
  • Lewdness
  • Criminal mischief
  • Burglary
  • Criminal trespass
  • Harassment
  • Stalking

Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

The initial phase of the domestic violence process is the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), which restricts contact between the victim and the accused before a Final Restraining Order (FRO) hearing is held. Due to the time-sensitive nature of domestic violence cases, the Final Restraining Order hearing must be held within 10 days from the date that the Temporary Restraining Order is placed into effect. The difficulty facing both parties in this process is the limited time frame within which to gather evidence and develop a well-supported case. An experienced attorney can serve as an invaluable asset during pre-trial preparation. After the trial, the presiding judge will determine whether the evidence is sufficient to warrant a Final Restraining Order against the defendant. If the parties are divorced, in the process of divorcing, or are parents of a shared child and a Final Restraining Order is entered, it may significantly impact child custody, visitation and parenting time, child support, alimony, and other considerations.

Contact our NJ Restraining Order Attorneys to Discuss Your Case

When domestic violence issues arise, immediate and aggressive action is necessary to protect yourself. With over 75 years of combined experience assisting individuals and families in these precarious situations, our team of family lawyers is prepared to stand by your side through every step of the legal process. Contact our firm to discuss your case and find the answers you need to move forward with confidence.

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