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    What to Do If You Are Served With a Restraining Order

    What to Do If You Are Served With a Restraining Order

    “You’ve been served”. While service of process may not be as dramatic as it is portrayed in television and movies, being handed papers letting you know there is a restraining order against you can be jarring. This unexpected experience can be overwhelming, so it’s crucial to remain calm and understand your next steps. There is often a tight turnaround between when you are served and when you need to appear in court, making it all the more important to act quickly and knowledgeably.

    What Does Your Restraining Order Mean?

    A restraining order can prohibit you from having a variety of contact with one or more individuals. It can prohibit all contact whatsoever, it can prohibit assaulting, threatening, harassing, following, or interfering with, or somewhere in-between the two. You will also be required to surrender or transfer your firearms and ammunition.  It’s important to know that violating any of these conditions, even right after being served and before you know exactly what is going on, is a felony offense under Connecticut Law.

    Each restraining order is unique and may come with specific conditions. Therefore, asking clarifying questions during your hearing is vital to ensure you understand the terms and avoid accidentally violating the order.

    When Do You Have to Appear in Court?

    Upon being served, you have a very short timeframe—between one and two weeks—before your court hearing. At this hearing, you can object to the restraining order and present evidence in your defense. Successful evidence may include testimonials from friends or family, as well as photographs, emails, or text messages that support your case. The paperwork you are served will list the date, time, and location for your appearance.

    What Happens If I Don’t Appear?

    If you do not appear at your hearing, the Court could rule against you and grant the relief the applicant wants for up to one year. Even if you have no intention on contacting that person, it’s important to contest the order because it can cause complications with travel, and even what might feel like an “innocent” violation can land you before a criminal judge on felony charges.

    Contact a Connecticut Restraining Order Lawyer ASAP

    Staying calm is essential if you are served with a restraining order in Connecticut. Carefully read the order to grasp its terms and restrictions. Do not contact the person who issued the order or have third-party communications. Note the court date, as you typically have only one to two weeks to prepare for your hearing. Gather any evidence or witness testimonies that support your case. Most importantly, consult a qualified attorney specializing in restraining orders. They can help you navigate the legal process and develop a strong defense to protect your rights.

    Reach out to Mark Sherman Law today, and we will assist you in preparing your case in a timely manner before your court date. Our attorneys have over 300 five-star reviews from helping out people in situations like yours. Let us give you the support you need during this challenging time.