Stamford Violation of Protective Order Lawyer
Violation of a Protective Order is a felony criminal charge in Connecticut. If you are arrested for Violation of a Protective Order or contacted by the police, get in touch with an experienced Stamford criminal attorney as soon as possible. Our Stamford violation of protective order lawyers can help.
What is a Protective Order?
A criminal protective order is issued by Connecticut Superior Court, and can prevent you from contacting the protected person, from going to his or her residence, or from assault, threatening, abusing, or harassing the protected person. Some protective orders may even prohibit you from being within 100 yards of the protected person. Working with a Stamford attorney can help ensure you do not violate the provisions of your protective order and face harsh penalties.
When Do Courts Issue Protective Orders?
In all domestic violence cases, courts issue criminal protective orders against the parties accused of a domestic violence crime – even if there’s no actual violence involved in the allegations. While a criminal attorney can assist you in filing motions to modify the order, these orders usually remain in effect throughout the duration of the criminal proceedings. Even if the protected person changes his or her mind, or does not request the order in the first place, only the judge can modify or terminate a protective order.
What’s the Difference between a Protective Order and a Restraining Order?
While protective orders are issued by a criminal judge pursuant to an arrest, civil / family restraining orders are issued in civil court. An individual can initiate an application for a civil or family restraining order by filing an affidavit with the court, if he or she is being subjected to threats, abuse, stalking and other behaviors.
What Should I Do if I Violated My Protective Order?
You should contact a Stamford protective order violation attorney immediately. An experienced attorney will be able to advise you regarding your rights, assist you in speaking to the police department if it’s appropriate, and can protect your rights in court.
What are the Penalties for Violating a Criminal Protective Order?
Violation of a protective order or restraining order is prohibited by Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-223. If the violation involves threats, attacks, harassment, or restraint, the offense will be considered a Class C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine as high as $10,000. Other violations are Class D felonies punishable by up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 fine. Either way, Violation of a Protective Order / Violation of a Restraining Order in Stamford is a serious offense, which exposes you to substantial jailtime and potentially a permanent felony criminal record which makes working with a trusted attorney vital.
Work with a Stamford Violation of Protective Order Attorney
In addition to the statutory penalties, violation of a protective order can create a felony criminal record that could cause problems for years to come. Accordingly, if you are arrested for violating a protective order or a restraining order, believe you may have violated an order, or are uncertain how to comply, contact an experienced Stamford violation of protective order lawyer as soon as possible.
Your attorney serves as your advocate, fighting to protect your rights and bring about the best resolution to the problem. Call Mark Sherman Law to learn how a criminal defense lawyer could make a difference in your case.