The Interconnectedness of Protective Orders & Criminal Cases
Protective orders and family violence cases are often deeply intertwined, with each significantly impacting the other. Protective orders, also known as restraining orders, are civil legal orders issued to prevent continuing acts of family violence or to protect individuals from imminent harm.
When a protective order is requested in relation to a family or domestic violence case, it can influence the criminal case significantly. Conversely, if someone is found guilty of family violence, that conviction can lead to the issuance or extension of a protective order against them.
Keep reading to learn more about how a protective order hearing can influence a criminal case and how a seasoned attorney can help you throughout this process.
How Protective Order Hearings Impact Criminal Cases
When facing a protective order hearing in Texas, it's imperative to understand that discussions about the associated criminal case during this hearing are considered "on the record." Being "on the record" means that anything discussed during these hearings is officially documented and can be used in the criminal case.
As such, records from protective hearings can directly influence a criminal domestic violence case, potentially affecting the outcome.
The defense attorneys at Winters & Chidester have experience handling protective orders in the context of family violence charges. Their record of success in these cases is grounded in a robust understanding of how to approach protecting client rights and interests across both the protective order hearing and any associated criminal matters.
Our Approach To These Types of Cases: Details Matter
Our firm's approach to handling family violence cases and protective orders is guided by a deep understanding of the law, honed by our attorneys' extensive experience, including Attorney Veronica Chidester's background as a family violence chief prosecutor. Recognizing the sensitivities involved, we offer advice on managing these cases, helping our clients ensure their every action is carefully considered.
Examples of ways we have helped past clients through these types of cases include the following:
- Strategic representation: Drawing on Veronica’s invaluable insight as a former family violence chief prosecutor, we craft strategic defenses tailored to the specifics of each case.
- Guidance on compliance: We advise our clients on the practicalities of complying with protective orders and avoiding common pitfalls that could lead to further legal complications.
- Courtroom conduct: Our attorneys coach clients on courtroom etiquette, including how to enter and exit the courtroom and avoid unintentional encounters with the protective order applicant.
- Negotiating protective orders: When appropriate, we negotiate the terms of protective orders, making appearances before the judge to advocate on their behalf.
- Preparation for hearings: We prepare our clients for what to expect during the hearings, offering guidance on everything from the procedural aspects to the emotional challenges they may face.
Handling family violence and protective orders requires a delicate balance, blending assertive legal action with a compassionate understanding of the client's situation. In these ways, our attorneys are committed to guiding our clients through these challenging situations with an eye on how each aspect of a case may impact a client's future.
If you need representation in a protective order hearing and a related domestic or family violence case, we are ready to help. Contact us online to schedule a consultation.