Compassionate Guidance In Matters Of Domestic Violence

At the Law Office of Stephen W. Penn, our extensive experience in California family law puts us in a position to help those who are survivors of domestic violence as well as those who are accused.

Protecting Yourself From An Abuser

Survivors of domestic violence and even those who have not yet been physically abused have several options to protect themselves against further abuse:

• Emergency protective orders are often requested by law enforcement who respond to a domestic violence call and are effective immediately. These orders keep the alleged abuser away from the home for one week, allowing time for a request for a domestic violence restraining order to be filed.
• Domestic violence restraining orders provide protection for three years. They can prevent the restrained person from contacting the victim, keep them out of a shared home, and require that they give up any firearms they own.

Abuse is not always physical; verbal assault, emotional abuse, intimidation and sexual abuse are all forms of domestic violence. Regardless of the type of abuse, you are not alone. An experienced attorney can help you with filing a protective order so that you are not burdened with getting yourself out of a bad situation.

What To Do If A Protective Order Is Filed Against You

It’s very important to follow the requirements of the order. Violation of an order for protection can lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges. As a family law specialist, attorney Stephen Penn is familiar with the judges in San Jose, Morgan Hill and Hollister who deal with domestic violence. Our firm can help you through the process of responding to allegations of domestic violence and get your life back on track.

Call our office in Morgan Hill at 408-776-1525 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation with a lawyer who can help.