Domestic violence is a serious crime, and the offender should be held accountable for his or her actions. In some cases, it’s best to simply remove yourself from the situation – by leaving your home or even moving to another state – while taking other steps to protect yourself and any children involved in the case. If you have been a victim of domestic violence in Minnesota, here’s what you need to know about criminal charges and protective orders:
Removing the Victim from Danger
The first step in helping a Local Criminal Defense Attorney in Minneapolis is removing them from danger. There are many ways this can be accomplished, such as:
- Removing the victim from their home and placing them in a shelter or other safe place
- Getting police protection for the victim so that they don’t have to return to their abuser
- Referring victims to shelters outside of Minnesota if there aren’t any resources locally
Restraining Orders
Restraining orders are civil orders that can be issued by a judge. Restraining orders are used to keep you and your family safe. A restraining order can be issued against anyone who has been violent, threatening or abusive towards you or your children. You do not need to file for divorce in order to obtain one of these protective measures; however, if your spouse has been convicted of domestic violence against you or someone else within the last five years (or there is evidence that they may have committed another crime) then he/she may not be eligible for custody rights over any children born during the marriage if a divorce occurs later on down the road.
Child Protection Orders
- A child protection order is a court order that can be issued to protect a child from abuse and neglect.
- Child protection orders are issued by judges, social workers, law enforcement officers and others who have authority under state law.
Criminal Charges for Domestic Violence Offenders
- A criminal defense attorney is a lawyer who represents you in court when you are accused of committing a crime.
- A domestic violence attorney is the same thing, but instead of representing you in court, they help with your case outside the courtroom. This includes negotiating with prosecutors to get reduced charges or even dropped altogether.
- If you’re going through family law proceedings because of domestic violence issues, then it’s important that both sides have their own attorneys so that they can protect their interests and make sure everything goes smoothly during the process until it comes time for trial (if necessary).
A domestic violence attorney will help you understand your legal rights and options.
A domestic violence attorney will help you understand your legal rights and options.
You may be eligible for a free consultation with a domestic violence attorney if you are in need of assistance with filing for divorce, child custody or child support. You can also find domestic violence attorneys through the Minnesota Bar Association or National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233).
Conclusion
Hopefully this article has helped you understand the role of a domestic violence attorney in Minneapolis. If you are facing charges for domestic violence or looking to get a restraining order against someone, it is important that you contact an experienced lawyer who can help guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected.