Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence in Texas

When acts of violence occur in a family or within the bonds of another relationship that should be built on love and security, the willingness of the victim to come forward is often diminished. Unfortunately, there is sometimes guilt or shame that accompanies abuse in a relationship. You must know, however, that there is assistance available and you do have legal options to protect yourself.

According to the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, a protective order can be issued to prevent continuing acts of family violence. Family violence is defined as any act by one member of a family or household intended to physically harm another member, a serious threat of physical harm, or the abuse of a child. For the purposes of this law, family is determined to be blood relatives or relatives by marriage, former spouses, parents of the same child, foster parents and children, or any member or former member of a household. The protective order can also apply to boyfriend and girlfriend relationships.

A judge or magistrate can grant a temporary protective order that will last fourteen to twenty days. If you require a long-term order of protection, the person against whom you are filing the request is notified and can choose to appear in court and dispute the allegations. With an experienced family law attorney by your side through this process, you know that you will be doing all that you can in advocating for your safety and well-being.

There also are instances in which unfair accusations of domestic violence are made during contentious divorces and disagreements over child custody. If you have been targeted with unfounded legal action against you, a family law attorney or one of our criminal defense lawyers can defend your reputation and fight for your rights concerning your family and financial settlements.

Bertolino LLP have experienced attorneys who are sensitive to the special circumstances that surround family law and the process for filing an application for a protective order. With law offices in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, we have several locations to meet your legal needs. Please contact us if you need assistance gaining freedom from a violent home situation.

IMPORTANT: If you feel that you are in imminent danger at the hands of someone in your home, you must seek help immediately. Please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE. Once you are out of direct harm, then you can concern yourself with possible legal action.

Contact an Experienced Attorney at Bertolino LLP

The attorneys at Bertolino LLP have the experience you need in obtaining protective order for family violence. With offices in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, we are accessible to meet your needs. Please contact our nearest office today. Bertolino LLP has office locations in Austin, Houston and San Antonio. To contact the Austin office, call 512.476.5757. For the San Antonio office, call 210.223.5553. For the Houston office, call 713.225.7474.