Protective Orders
If you have been harmed by someone close to you, you know what it is like to truly fear for your safety. You may choose to avoid certain people, situations, and places for fear that you will encounter the person who abused you and will be harmed again. However, you should not and do not have to live in fear. In Alabama, you may be able to get a protective order. Because this process can be complex, we recommend contacting a family law attorney to strategize about the best possible outcomes for the situation if you or a loved one might require a protective order.
When You Might Require a Protective Order
Though there are many forms of protective orders, in Alabama, the most common form of protective orders are in domestic violence situations. A protective order is a civil order that is meant to protect victims who have experienced physical harm or are in reasonable fear of physical harm as well as sexual assault and stalking. This order requires a person to stop harming you or your loved ones.
In Alabama, a Protection From Abuse Order is the most prominent protective orders in these situations and can be issued against a spouse, former spouse, parent-child relationships, as well as present or former household members. This order allows you to call the police if a person in one of the categories mentioned above violates that order, and provides for that person to be put in jail to prevent any further harm if necessary. These types of protective orders protect not only you, but any minor child and/or close family member or household member from being abused and can be issued up to one year unless the court deems it necessary to have the protective order placed for a longer period of time. In Alabama, if that protection order is violated, the abuser can receive up to one year in jail as well as fines up to $6,000 at the misdemeanor level. A violation of a protective order can become a felony if there is actual abuse in violation of the protective order.
Because the rules of a protective order can vary and depends on your situation, it is important to seek legal advice and representation if you find yourself in this circumstance.
Considering a Protective Order and Need Legal Advice?
Protective orders can change your life for the better. With a protection order, you do not have to continue living your life in fear of being harmed by someone close to you. Though the process can seem overwhelming, especially if there are children involved, you do not have to go through the process alone. Having an attorney to help you obtain a protection order is invaluable. If you or a loved one want to pursue a protective order, contact an experienced family law attorney at Massey, Stotser, & Nichols, PC to help you with your case. Contact our office today.