Protective Order

Austin, Texas Attorneys Handling Protective Orders

Here at the law firm of Patricia L. Brown & Associates. P.C., we understand that it's difficult to request a protective order. It means that the person who says he or she loves you hits or threatens you. The threats often directly impact your children, who may now fear a family member.

Domestic violence is taken very seriously in Texas. When the police are called to a domestic assault, charges are usually filed. The State of Texas pursues domestic violence charges vigorously.

Please contact us in our Round Rock, Texas, law offices for a confidential consultation. An experienced attorney will help you assess your domestic violence case and the process for requesting a protective order.

Requesting a Protective Order

Of the three kinds of protective orders, both temporary and permanent orders must be requested by the victim and ordered by the court. Your abuser does not need to be arrested or present in court if you request a temporary or permanent protective order.

The court will look at the history of domestic violence in your case and the likelihood of it occurring again.

If a divorce is pending, you may request a temporary protective order for your personal safety.

• Temporary protective order: Orders your abuser to have no contact with you or your children and to stay away from the family residence and your work
• Permanent protective order: Valid up to 2 years
• Emergency protective order: Ordered by the court if there is "clear and present" danger to any family member

You do not need an attorney to request a protective order. In our experience it is wise to engage the services of an experienced domestic violence attorney for a number of reasons.

We know Texas law, because we have been in practice for more than 11 years.

If your abuser has an attorney, it will be more difficult for you to proceed without counsel.

If the violence escalates, you will you have an advocate who is ready to protect your interests and your children's.