Domestic violence is a type of abuse between two people with an intimate, family, or close relationship. Domestic violence is among the most unreported and unreported crimes. If you are a victim of domestic violence, it is important to speak confidentially with an experienced Mooresville domestic violence lawyer to protect yourself and to explain your rights. Jonathan D. Griffin at Griffin Law, PLLC, can discuss your situation in a safe space right away.
In North Carolina, domestic violence is abuse between two parties who share a “personal relationship,” such as any of the following:
North Carolina domestic violence laws are contained within state statutes under Chapter 50B, and a protection order can be awarded pursuant to this section. A licensed family law attorney at Griffin Law, PLLC can help you seek a protective order from abuse.
Of note, this chapter previously excluded same-sex couples, but a recent court ruling with the North Carolina Court of Appeals indicated the prior exclusion was unconstitutional and extended protection orders to all couples, regardless of marital status.
The NC Council for Women and Youth Involvement conducts studies and compiles data for domestic violence semiannually. In 2023-2024, 55,400 participants received either remote or in-person services as victims of domestic violence.
In 2023, there were, unfortunately, 135 victims of homicide related to domestic violence in our state. Of those 135 victims, sadly, six of the victims had previously been granted protective orders when the homicide happened.
North Carolina has just over 11 million residents, and with data showing an alarming number of domestic violence incidents, it is crucial to get help right away with a protective order so you do not become a statistic yourself.
In order to get help for yourself and your family, a restraining order (sometimes also called a protective order) is the first line of necessary defense if you are in danger. A local judge can set up an order specific to your situation, but these orders often include common requirements such as:
An attorney can immediately help address your safety and help you understand the process required to get a restraining order. They can help determine whether other steps might be helpful to make sure you and your family are safe. An attorney can provide invaluable legal assistance throughout the entire protective order process and discuss your situation confidentially.
There are substantial benefits to getting reliable legal counsel. An attorney can help with a protective order and also other family law issues that might arise because of domestic violence (like filing for divorce or child custody issues). An attorney can:
A seasoned domestic violence attorney can provide competent legal assistance with your domestic violence matter. Contact a trusted Mooresville domestic violence attorney to discuss your situation in a private, safe space.
If you need help right away, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline to immediately discuss what has happened.
Locally, you can contact the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence or Hope of Mooresville, which is open 24 hours a day.
Domestic violence can also be reported at the Mooresville Police Department, located at 2847 Charlotte Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117, and their number is (704) 664-3311. Consider contacting a trusted attorney to discuss your situation as well.
Attorneys determine their own costs based on their experience level, the case complexity, and other factors, such as whether a case goes to trial. An attorney can use a variety of fee agreements, such as an hourly rate or another client arrangement. Typically, more experienced attorneys cost more.
At our firm, we want all clients to have access to necessary legal assistance following a domestic violence incident and offer free consultations to discuss your circumstances.
No, a victim cannot drop domestic violence charges. In North Carolina, it is up to the state to decide whether to prosecute, and once a domestic violence criminal charge is filed, a victim (or a witness) no longer has the option about whether to continue with a case. While a victim can provide context to a domestic violence situation and give information about their wish for the outcome, they do not have the choice to end the prosecution.
If you need help with domestic violence matters, Jonathan D. Griffin at Griffin Law, PLLC, can discuss your situation. We can help explore your protective options and consider all potential strategies for moving forward with your life. We’ve helped domestic violence victims for over 19 years in North Carolina.
Contact Griffin Law, PLLC, right away to set up a free initial consultation with a compassionate and knowledgeable domestic violence attorney.