Domestic Violence Attorneys in Hackensack, NJ
Domestic violence cases move fast and carry life-changing consequences for everyone involved. Whether you are a victim who needs protection or you have been served with a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), the experienced attorneys at Russo Petrullo Law Group, LLC will guide you through the process and fight for your rights.
What Counts as Domestic Violence in New Jersey
New Jersey's Prevention of Domestic Violence Act protects spouses and former spouses, household members and former household members, people in dating relationships, and people who share a child. The Act covers a list of predicate offenses that includes assault, harassment, stalking, terroristic threats, criminal mischief, false imprisonment, criminal sexual contact, criminal coercion, and cyber-harassment, among others. A single incident can qualify — but the court also considers the history between the parties.
Protection for Victims of Domestic Violence
If you have been the victim of domestic violence, obtaining — and keeping — a restraining order can be a matter of life or death. A Temporary Restraining Order can be issued quickly, often the same day, based on your sworn testimony alone, and police can help you obtain one at any hour. We help victims prepare compelling testimony and evidence for the final hearing, secure Final Restraining Orders (FROs), and obtain related relief such as exclusive possession of the home, temporary custody and parenting time provisions, and financial support.
Defense Against Restraining Orders
If you have been served with a TRO, you must act immediately to prevent that order from becoming final. The final hearing typically takes place within about ten days of the TRO being issued — leaving very little time to gather evidence, identify witnesses, and prepare testimony. Restraining orders are also, unfortunately, sometimes used as leverage in divorce and custody disputes; we know how to expose exaggerated and fabricated allegations.
What a Final Restraining Order Means
A Final Restraining Order in New Jersey does not expire. It can bar you from your home and your children, require fingerprinting and placement in a statewide registry, prohibit firearm ownership and result in seizure of your weapons, and disqualify you from many jobs, promotions, and professional opportunities. Violating a restraining order — even by a text message, even at the protected person's invitation — is criminal contempt, and a second violation carries mandatory jail time.
How We Help
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Emergency applications for Temporary Restraining Orders
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Representation at Final Restraining Order hearings — for victims and defendants
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Applications to dissolve or modify existing restraining orders
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Defense of criminal contempt charges for alleged violations
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Weapons forfeiture proceedings that follow domestic violence complaints
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Handling related criminal charges, custody, and support issues that often accompany DV cases
The FRO Hearing Is a Trial — Treat It Like One
At the final hearing, a judge hears testimony and evidence from both sides and decides whether an act of domestic violence occurred, whether there is a history of abuse, and whether a final order is needed for protection. There is no jury, the rules of evidence apply, and the consequences are permanent. Whichever side of the case you are on, walking into that courtroom without experienced counsel is a mistake you may not be able to fix.
Why Both Victims and Defendants Call Russo Petrullo Law Group
We have stood on both sides of New Jersey restraining order hearings for more than 30 years — which means we know the opposing strategy before we walk into the courtroom. Because domestic violence cases so often intertwine with divorce, custody, and criminal charges, our depth across all of family and criminal law lets us protect you on every front at once. And because emergencies don't wait for business hours, we offer 24-hour emergency legal service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Final Restraining Order last in New Jersey?
Unlike most states, New Jersey FROs are permanent. They remain in effect unless a court later dissolves or modifies them upon a proper application showing good cause.
What evidence should I bring to the hearing?
Text messages, emails, voicemails, photographs of injuries or property damage, medical records, police reports, and witnesses. We help you organize the record so the judge sees the full picture.
Can a restraining order be lifted later?
Yes. Either party can apply to dissolve or modify an FRO, but the court applies a demanding good-cause standard. These applications require careful preparation — courts do not lift final orders lightly.
What if the protected person contacts me?
Do not respond. Only the court can change the order — the protected person cannot waive it, and any contact by you can be charged as a criminal violation, even if they reached out first.
Can I get a restraining order against someone I dated but never lived with?
Yes. New Jersey's Prevention of Domestic Violence Act covers dating relationships — you do not need to be married to, live with, or have a child with the person.
What is the difference between a restraining order and criminal charges?
A restraining order is a civil matter decided by a family court judge; criminal charges are prosecuted separately by the State. The same incident frequently produces both, and what happens in one case can affect the other — coordinated defense matters.
Will a restraining order give me custody of my children?
A TRO or FRO can include temporary custody, parenting time, and support provisions to protect you and your children immediately. Longer-term custody is then addressed in the family part — we handle both stages.
Do I need a lawyer if I'm the one seeking the restraining order?
Yes. The final hearing is a trial: you carry the burden of proof, the defendant may have counsel cross-examining you, and if the FRO is denied the TRO protections disappear. Experienced counsel makes sure your evidence and testimony are presented so the order is granted — and keeps custody and support relief on the table.
Know Your Rights — Protect Your Future
Take advantage of the free initial consultation provided by Russo Petrullo Law Group. Call (888) 332-9900 today or visit our office at 79 Main Street, Suite 2, Hackensack, NJ 07601 to schedule your free initial consultation.
