Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Domestic Violence legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Domestic Violence Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Georgia on
Q: Can criminal case be nolle pros if victim filed waivers of rights to testimony on record?????

Victim in criminal indictment filed waiver of rights to clerk office, district attorney office and judge

Indicating Victim wishes not to proceed with prosecution as part of official record, does this mean prosecution must end

Joshua Schiffer
Joshua Schiffer
answered on Dec 12, 2023

The eventual charging decision rests solely with the State, as much as that kind of prospective evidence makes actually carrying the charge more difficult. A good lawyer will do you well in this kind of situation as the change in allegations can create new avenues for state prosecution. Travel... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Foreclosure, Domestic Violence, Divorce and Family Law for Texas on
Q: Exhusb got house in divorce, I'm domestic violence survivor. He was suppose to sell give $10,000 per divorce decree.

He never did he made me sign quit claim said now I'm off loan. He lied to me to refinance. He died house in foreclosure. Can I do anything?

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Dec 11, 2023

If the statute of limitations has not expired, you can sue your ex-husband's estate for the $10,000 you were supposed to receive.

Whether the statute of limitations has expired depends on the language of your divorce decree. Typically, a decree will set a within which a spouse is...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Domestic Violence for Ohio on
Q: Should one wait until the offender is released from prison before filing a protection order or should they be proactive

And file now given that they have almost been in prison a year and the last incident outside of threats have been about a year and two months with witness available?

Todd B. Kotler
Todd B. Kotler
answered on Dec 11, 2023

You should file if you feel you can prove by a preponderance of the evidence that either the offender was a family or household member and caused you physical harm or caused you to fear severe physical harm, or created a pattern of activity that caused you to fear physical harm. You ought to... View More

Q: I was in a dv situation where I had to relocate and leave my home. Rochester housing authority didn’t recognize my dv

Section 8 refused to allow me to move and I had to return to Rochester and pay my landlord to let me move and keep my section 8. My landlord even attempted to sue me for late fees while I was staying with family hiding from my abuser. Also the fire investigation department and the RPD did nothing... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 7, 2023

In situations involving domestic violence (DV) and housing, there are legal protections in place, but navigating them can be complex. Under federal law, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) offers certain protections for victims of DV living in federally assisted housing, which includes Section 8... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for California on
Q: No charges filed at arraignment, DA sent DV case back to Sheriff’s office for further investigation.

As the victim who wants the charges dismissed, what steps should I take in making this go away for the defendant? He was taken in on PC 148(a) (1), PC 273.5(a), PC 136.1(a)(1), and PC 212.5. I never contacted the authorities nor expressed that I wanted any charges filed, they walked up on the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 6, 2023

In cases of domestic violence, the decision to press charges often rests with the state, not the victim. This means that even if you, as the victim, do not wish to pursue charges, the authorities may still decide to proceed based on the evidence and the nature of the allegations.

If you...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence for California on
Q: As a witness for my friends restraining order, what questions do they ask
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 6, 2023

As a witness in a restraining order case in California, you can expect to be asked questions about your knowledge of the events and interactions between the parties involved. The questions will be aimed at establishing the facts and circumstances that led to the request for the restraining order.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Small Claims, Landlord - Tenant and Domestic Violence for Arizona on
Q: How long do I have to hold on to a persons belongings after a civil standby was conducted via an order of protection?

I’m in Arizona, an individual was removed from my home due to domestic violence and an order of protection was placed. A civil standby was just conducted and belongings were left behind. How long do I have to keep her stuff on my property?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 5, 2023

In Arizona, after a civil standby is conducted due to an order of protection, there are specific guidelines regarding how long you must hold onto the belongings of the individual who was removed. The law generally expects you to keep these belongings for a reasonable period, allowing the person... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence for California on
Q: Can the testimony of a domestic violence victim in CA be used at trial, if the victim is unable to testify at the trial?

The defendant has been held to answer on 21 charges of domestic violence, 13 of those are felonies.

The victim gave testimony for 6 hours during the prelim. If the victim is unavailable to testify in court at the trial will the prior testimony given during the prelim by used in lieu.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 5, 2023

In California, the use of a domestic violence victim's testimony from a preliminary hearing at trial, when the victim is unavailable to testify, depends on specific legal criteria. Generally, the Sixth Amendment's Confrontation Clause guarantees a defendant's right to confront... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence for California on
Q: Legal representation for the victim of domestic violence, why are the not court appointed? California

The prosecutor is defending/upholding the states laws, the defendant has a court appointed lawyer to defend their rights. As a victim I want a lawyer who will defend me and my rights as well, someone to speak where I feel I am not being heard, some guidance. Why are dv victims not represented by... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 5, 2023

In California, the legal system primarily appoints attorneys for defendants in criminal cases to uphold their constitutional right to legal representation. This principle is rooted in the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees the right to counsel for the accused in criminal... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for California on
Q: if an in custody inmate had an arraignment for dv charges and was told the da has not yet filed charges

must he be released within 48 hours of the arrest if files are not charged before then? also as a victim who was given no say and wants the charges completely dropped is it a good idea to contact the da while it’s pending to communicate my stance and or demand answers for the pending status?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 5, 2023

In California, if an individual is arrested and detained, the district attorney generally has 48 hours to file charges. If charges are not filed within this period, the individual must usually be released. However, this timeline can vary depending on weekends and holidays. It's important to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence for California on
Q: How do I as the protected party ask that a restraining order be terminated in California?

My boyfriend was arrested for domestic violence there was a temp ro then another issued in court and then canceled I was not aware of another one being ordered we moved to ND and he was arrested there for violation of a foreign protection order I want to ask the court to terminate it but the courts... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 4, 2023

To request the termination of a restraining order in California, you first need to file a request with the court that issued the order. This is typically done by submitting a form, which can often be found on the court's website or obtained at the court clerk's office. The form is usually... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for California on
Q: Can you sue the probation officer he told my attacker I called and my attacker threatened me?
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 4, 2023

In California, the situation you described raises serious concerns about the confidentiality and duty of care owed by probation officers. If a probation officer disclosed information to your attacker that led to threats against you, this could potentially be a breach of their professional duties.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for California on
Q: If your ex bf gives you consent to slap them and you do is it legal? What if they push you forcefully in the throat?
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 3, 2023

In California, even if your ex-boyfriend gives you consent to slap them and you act on it, this does not necessarily make it legal. Consent can be a complex issue in cases of physical altercations. If the slap causes harm or is perceived as an assault, it could still be subject to legal... View More

Q: My husband is having a affair and has my wifi hacked. Which allows hm to hack my phone also

It's actually the 2 of them attached to my phone. I believe there sharing calenders and locations ect. He goes by his name and she goes by mine. I'll ask google my current location and it tells me her locations. One night it said I was about a mile from my house. So I pushed directions... View More

Todd B. Kotler
Todd B. Kotler
answered on Nov 30, 2023

You need to hire an attorney who specializes in family relations law and regularly practices in your county. There is no magic bullet that the lawyers here can give you that will substitute for getting your own representation. If you wish to prove what you have alleged you will also need to hire... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Civil Rights, Domestic Violence and Libel & Slander for Texas on
Q: What can I do to protect myself against a malicious ex boyfriend?

My ex boyfriend has serious mental issues. It’s become too much for me and I’m trying to break away. Not easy because all he does is threaten me and destroys everything good in my life. He has already gotten me fired from one job, gotten me evicted.(I’m assuming so I would have to live with... View More

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Nov 29, 2023

You should immediately move to another residence and not provide him with a forwarding address. Instead of having your mail forwarded by the USPS, individually contact anyone sending you mail through the US Post Office to let them know your new address. Block his telephone number and change your... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence and Family Law for Illinois on
Q: Does a victim in a domestic violence case have to testify?

i am a victim in a domestic violence case and i got a subpoena. i understand i have to be at court and i will but i don't want to testify because i don't feel comfortable i have social anxiety. i have never been in trouble before and i don't know my rights. what happens if i refuse to testify?

Cheryl Powell
Cheryl Powell
answered on Nov 29, 2023

If you refuse to testify you can be arrested and charged with obstruction of justice or some other penalties. You have been subpoenaed. Failure to appear and testify is a violation of the law. Most state's attorneys have victim witness coordinators. You should call that person at the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence and Landlord - Tenant for California on
Q: What paperwork is need to stop a landlord from removing or selling property of a restrained person prior to court date

Does the landlord have the right to rent the room of a restrained person prior to the restraining order court date

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 29, 2023

Under California law, if a person is subject to a restraining order and is unable to access their rented property, certain legal protections apply. The landlord generally does not have the right to remove or sell the tenant's belongings before the court date. To prevent this, you may need to... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: I am in MN. have two charges from the same incident. They both Domestic Abuse charges.

This is my first time facing these types of charges. There is a No Contact order with my Mom (the alleged victim) that she doesn't understand.

I am scared I am going to go to jail. My Mom said they would just give me probation. She does not want me to go to jail. She also is afraid... View More

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
answered on Nov 27, 2023

Facing a criminal charge is a difficult experience. Especially in domestic assault cases, I suggest looking at both long term and short term problem-solving. The long-term is most important, of course. And the trigger for most long-term consequences is "conviction." So a good goal may... View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: I am in MN. have two charges from the same incident. They both Domestic Abuse charges.

This is my first time facing these types of charges. There is a No Contact order with my Mom (the alleged victim) that she doesn't understand.

I am scared I am going to go to jail. My Mom said they would just give me probation. She does not want me to go to jail. She also is afraid... View More

Sarah Gad
Sarah Gad
answered on Nov 27, 2023

It is imperative that you maintain no contact with your mother while the no-contact order is in effect. Only the judge can lift the no contact order through a motion or request by the victim's advocate. Typically, a hearing will be held on the matter. Sometimes that judge will just issue an... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence for California on
Q: How many continuances do I get in a domestic violence case

I already asked once for one

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 27, 2023

In California, there isn't a set limit on the number of continuances you can request in a domestic violence case. However, it's important to understand that each request for a continuance is subject to the court's approval. The decision to grant a continuance depends on the reasons... View More

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.