When someone is accused of committing violence against a family member in Virginia, they are usually served with a protective order after the incident. A protective order can affect one’s personal life and may also negatively impact one at work. Anyone facing a protective order after alleged abuse should be aware of how they work so one knows how to present a meaningful defense in such a complicated legal situation.
How protective orders work
An emergency protective order is common when there are accusations of domestic violence. The emergency order will expire at the end of the third day after being issued or the next day the court is in session. Once the emergency order expires, the accuser can request a preliminary protective order which lasts up to 15 days or until a hearing resolves the matter. A judge may also order a more long-term protective order that can last up to two years.
A protective order may prohibit all contact between the accused and the accuser, or it may order limited contact. When one is served a protective order it’s important to be aware of the terms of the order, so it’s not violated. Violating the terms can complicate one’s case and add more stress to an already difficult situation.
Seek legal advice when facing an order of protection
Being served a protective order can complicate one’s life. It’s important for anyone who is accused of domestic violence and is served a protective order to seek legal advice. Virginia, like all other states, allows every individual time in court to defend themselves against charges related to domestic violence. An attorney can provide guidance on how best to come up with a defense based on the specifics of the case.