Compassionate guidance amid domestic violence conflicts
Domestic violence is an all-too common reality for many couples and families. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), roughly 1.3 million women are subjected to domestic physical assaults each year. In Tennessee alone, there were 247,249 domestic violence victims from 2011 through 2013. At Pate & Knott Attorneys at Law, we work hard to foster a safe and confidential environment where our clients have access to the legal resources and support they need. Since 1979, we have been helping clients obtain and enforce comprehensive orders of protection based on a variety of different circumstances.
Safety and security so you and your family can live without fear
It's undeniable that all families have their own conflicts and disagreements. When those seemingly minor disagreements turn physical or you are in fear of your spouse, you have the right to seek adequate protection. Tennessee law provides for orders of protection to protect you from
- Domestic abuse
- Stalking
- Sexual assault
Many people are unfamiliar with orders of protection and how exactly they help prevent further violent incidents. An order of protection granted by the court may be narrow or broad in scope depending upon the petitioner's specific circumstances. The order may:
- Prohibit the respondent from committing or threatening to commit abuse, sexual assault or stalking.
- Forbid the respondent from contacting the petitioner in any form including in person, by telephone, by computer or any other means of direct or indirect communication.
- Evict the respondent from the petitioner's residence.
- Prevent the respondent from obtaining custody or visitation rights of any shared minor children.
- Require the respondent to attend counseling and/or substance abuse programs
An order of protection is not limited to just one petitioner. The order may extend to protect minor children and pets that have been or may be subject to the respondent's violence.
Guiding you through the process of obtaining and enforcing an order of protection
If you or your children have been the victim actual or threatened abuse, it is vital that you seek help immediately to establish a protection order. There are two types of protection orders that are available:
- Ex parte protection orders – An ex parte protection order, also known as a temporary protection or restraining order, is issued by the court when there is good cause to support an immediate and present danger to the petitioner. This type of order lasts for 15 days at which time the court holds a full hearing to determine if the order should be extended or terminated.
- Extended protection orders – Extended protection orders are issued after a full hearing and last for a maximum of one year. Prior to its expiration, you may petition the court for an extension if there is sufficient cause to warrant continued protection.
Your most powerful ally when it comes to orders of protection in Murfreesboro and throughout the state of Tennessee
Domestic abuse is an intensely emotional and serious crime and should not be tolerated. At Pate & Knott Attorneys at Law, our attorneys are committed to getting you the protection you deserve in a timely manner. Don't hesitate to contact us online or call us at 615-848-1221 to discuss your case. Appointments are available on evenings and Saturdays for your convenience. Our office is located on the square and we serve clients in Rutherford County, Bedford County, DeKalb County, Cannon County, Wilson County, Smith County, Lincoln County, Warren County and Williamson County.