Bergen County Domestic Violence Lawyers

Compassionate and Empathetic Legal Support

Domestic violence occurs in many forms and is prevalent in all demographics in the United States, regardless of age, sex, marital status, gender, or number of children. Domestic violence impacts divorce in many ways for both victims and abusers.

At TMO Law LLC, we have seen firsthand the devastating effects of domestic violence. We are dedicated advocates providing support and protection for victims and their children. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our experienced Bergen County domestic violence lawyers can provide the guidance you need to seek justice and safety.

The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act

The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, the state law governing domestic violence, defines 19 crimes considered to be acts of domestic violence. Many of these are crimes in any context, not just in the domestic sphere. Other abusive actions are more subtle and deceiving, such as gaslighting, a type of emotional abuse inflicted to convince victims they are not being abused when, in reality, they are being abused. Other forms include verbal abuse, online harassment, and lewd behavior beyond crassness.

Cases of emotional and verbal abuse often have gray areas that are not easy to gauge, such as when the line of being verbally inappropriate crosses into abuse. If you suspect that you or someone you love is being verbally abused, contact our Bergen County domestic violence lawyers at TMO Law LLC for guidance and available options.

Can I Obtain a Restraining Order Against My Spouse?

Many spouses experiencing domestic violence fear continued or worsening abuse during the divorce process. The first step is to seek a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), which protects spouses and their children by legally preventing the abusive partner from any contact or specified physical distance between the victim and all other family members. A TRO can be obtained quickly and without the defendant being able to testify on their behalf.

Within the initial weeks following the issuance of a TRO, if not sooner, there will be a hearing in which the alleged abuser can speak to the court on their behalf. Domestic violence acts are often a pattern of behavior rather than a single act, and victims need to be well-prepared in advance to speak at the hearing. Our experienced Bergen County domestic violence lawyers will help you thoroughly prepare to provide the court with an accurate account of what you have experienced, which can result in the judge issuing a Full Restraining Order (FRO) and its terms.

No one should have to feel unsafe in their own home. If you are experiencing any form of domestic violence, get somewhere safe and call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. Once you are settled, contact our Bergen County domestic violence lawyers as soon as possible – we are always ready to help.