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Kingwood Domestic Violence Protective Order Defense Lawyer
Protecting the Accused Across Monongalia, Marion, Preston, Harrison, Taylor, and All of West Virginia
Domestic violence protective orders (DVPOs) are issued by West Virginia courts as legal measures to safeguard individuals and their families from allegations of abuse by partners, family members, or household members. Often referred to as “restraining orders,” these can be issued on both an emergency (temporary) and permanent basis. Emergency DVPOs are granted based solely on the statements of the accuser, often without concrete evidence or prior input from the party being accused.
At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, our Kingwood criminal lawyer understands how a DVPO can drastically impact your life. Our goal is to provide a robust defense against accusations that may be unsubstantiated, exaggerated, or strategically presented in divorce or custody disputes.
Why a DVPO Matters and What It Means for You
Being named as an offender in a DVPO can damage your reputation and impose severe restrictions on your rights. Specific consequences include:
- Contact Restrictions: You may be prohibited from contacting the accuser directly or indirectly (via phone, text, email, letter, or through a third party). This restriction may also extend to involved children.
- Eviction from Shared Residence: You could be required to leave your home if you share it with the accuser.
- Custody Limitations: Temporary loss of child custody or restricted visitation rights.
- Financial Burdens: You may be ordered to pay child or spousal support for the duration of the DVPO.
- Limited Mobility: Being barred from visiting places like the accuser’s workplace or your children’s school or daycare.
- Gun Possession Ban: You could lose the right to own or possess firearms.
- Participation in Intervention Programs: Mandatory enrollment in rehabilitative or intervention programs.
- Reimbursement Obligations: Payment for the accuser’s expenses, such as medical care, counseling, or shelter.
These orders can range in duration, lasting 90 days, 180 days, a year, or longer depending on the details of the case. If you are the subject of an emergency order based solely on the accuser’s claims, you have the right to present your side during a scheduled hearing to challenge the extension of the order to a permanent status.
The Mountaineer Criminal Law Group boasts a skilled team of attorneys, including experienced Kingwood criminal lawyers, dedicated to crafting a strong defense.
Fighting a DVPO in Court
To contest claims made against you, it’s essential to gather and present strong evidence refuting the accusations. Our attorneys at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group can guide you through this process with experienced legal representation.
Some effective pieces of evidence may include:
- Witness Testimony: Statements from individuals who can corroborate your side of the story or provide context that challenges your accuser’s claims.
- Digital Proof: Records such as text messages, emails, phone call logs, or other digital communication that may reinforce your defense.
- Material Evidence: Physical items or documentation that contradict the accusations.
Kingwood DUI attorneys understand how important it is to protect your legal and parental rights while maintaining your life and reputation. Our team will work tirelessly to build a case strategy that serves your best interests.
Consequences of a DVPO in West Virginia
According to the West Virginia Judiciary, both emergency and permanent DVPOs can have life-altering repercussions. Violations of these orders can lead to criminal charges and penalties, which can have a lasting impact on your career, reputation, and personal life. Ensuring that your rights are upheld throughout this process is critical, and that’s where Mountaineer Criminal Law Group comes in.
Take Action Today
Being accused in domestic violence protective order cases can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we are here to help protect your rights, fight back against false allegations, and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Schedule your free case evaluation today with our Kingwood criminal lawyer. Call Mountaineer Criminal Law Group at (304) 381-3656 or contact us online to get started.