Burleson Domestic Violence Lawyer

Protecting Victims of Abuse in Johnson County & Greater Fort Worth

The harsh act of domestic violence—intentionally inflicting harm or trauma to a spouse or family member without provocation or need for self-defense—is all too common, yet it is often kept in the shadows. 

It can occur at any time and cause permanent, painful damage. If you are in fear for your well-being or life and believe an immediate threat may be present, you need to call the police and find safety right away.

Next, you should contact a Burleson domestic violence attorney as soon as you can. The quickest and safest way out of your abusive relationship could be through divorce. 

At Coontz Cochran, we have over half a century of collective legal experience that we can use to find a fair and personalized solution for your situation.

In need of help? Contact us today at (888) 858-0536 for a free consultation. We're here to protect your rights.

Call Our Firm For Assistance 

Do I Have Grounds for a Domestic Violence Case?

Spousal abuse and domestic violence is not a singular issue that is always readily identifiable.

It Can Come in a Variety of Dangerous or Threatening Forms, Including:

• Intentional physical abuse
• Sexual assault
• Stalking and harassment
• Aggressive gestures or motions, such as shoving and pushing
• Extortion or unreasonable coercion
• Impairment of a medical condition, denying treatment or medication
• Threat or promise of any of the above forms

The Importance of Reporting Domestic Violence

It is of utmost importance that you report domestic violence as soon as it happens. Authorities agree that hiding or staying silent when experiencing spousal abuse can make the situation worse, as it may only empower the abuser. 

Additionally, if your domestic violence case is brought to a Texas court, you must not hesitate to testify honestly against the offender. If a divorce is granted, the victim is usually awarded with more than half of shared properties, and child custody or spousal support claims are often rewarded to those who have been injured through domestic violence.

How Domestic Violence Affects Children

Domestic violence can have a profound impact on children who witness or experience it. The trauma caused by an abusive environment can lead to a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. Some of the common effects include:

• Emotional Distress: Children may feel fear, anxiety, depression, and guilt. They often feel responsible for the violence or worry about the safety of their parents.
• Behavioral Problems: Witnessing domestic violence can cause children to act out in school, have trouble with social relationships, or develop issues with anger management.
• Long-Term Effects: The long-term impact can include difficulty forming healthy relationships and a higher risk of experiencing or perpetrating abuse in the future.

It is crucial to protect children from exposure to domestic violence. When it comes to custody, the court always prioritizes the best interests of the child. Factors such as the child’s emotional well-being, safety, and overall stability are considered when making decisions about custody arrangements.

Understanding the Legal Process in Domestic Violence Cases

When domestic violence is reported, a legal process is set in motion. The first step is often to obtain a restraining order to keep the abuser away. Here’s a breakdown of the legal process:

• Filing for a Protection Order: The victim can request a restraining order from the court, which legally prevents the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim.
• Criminal Charges: If the abuse is severe, criminal charges may be filed against the perpetrator. Law enforcement investigates the case and gathers evidence.
• Legal Representation: A domestic violence lawyer can help navigate the legal system, ensure safety, and work to protect the victim's rights throughout the process.

Throughout this process, law enforcement, courts, and legal representation all play key roles in ensuring justice and safety for the victim.

Legal Consequences for Domestic Violence Offenders

Perpetrators of domestic violence can face severe legal consequences. These can include:

• Criminal Charges: Domestic violence is a serious criminal offense. Charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the abuse.
• Imprisonment: Offenders may be sentenced to jail or prison time, particularly if the abuse involved physical injury or a history of violence.
• Fines: In addition to imprisonment, offenders may face hefty fines as part of their punishment.
• Rehabilitation Programs: Courts often require offenders to attend counseling, anger management, or rehabilitation programs aimed at addressing abusive behavior.

The legal system is designed to hold offenders accountable and protect victims from future harm.

Legal Protection Orders for Domestic Violence Victims

If you are a victim of domestic violence, it is crucial to seek legal protection to ensure your safety and well-being. Our experienced Burleson domestic violence attorneys can help you obtain a legal protection order, also known as a restraining order, to prevent your abuser from contacting or coming near you.

Legal protection orders can provide the following benefits:

• Restraining the abuser from contacting or harassing you
• Prohibiting the abuser from coming near your home, workplace, or children's school
• Granting temporary custody of children and pets
• Ordering the abuser to attend counseling or anger management classes

Don't wait to take action. Contact our compassionate legal team at Coontz Cochran today to discuss your options for obtaining a legal protection order and putting an end to domestic violence.

FAQ: Domestic Violence Cases in Burleson

• Can I file for a restraining order without pressing criminal charges?
  Yes, you can file for a restraining order without pressing criminal charges. A restraining order is a civil matter, and it is designed to protect you from further harm. If you are concerned about your safety, seeking a restraining order can be an important step, even if you don’t want to pursue criminal charges at that time.
• What should I do if I suspect my partner is hiding assets during a domestic violence case?
  If you suspect your partner is hiding assets, it’s important to speak with your attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you take legal action to uncover hidden assets, which may involve using forensic accountants, subpoenas, or discovery processes during the case. Protecting your financial interests is crucial during a domestic violence case, especially if you’re considering divorce.
• How can domestic violence affect child custody decisions?
  The court will always prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. If domestic violence is involved, it can heavily impact custody arrangements. The court will look at the safety and emotional well-being of the child, and may restrict the abuser’s access to the child or grant sole custody to the non-abusive parent to protect the child from harm.
• What if my spouse or partner falsely accuses me of domestic violence?
  False accusations of domestic violence are serious and can damage your reputation and legal standing. If you’re facing false accusations, it’s important to consult with an attorney immediately. Legal representation can help you protect your rights, gather evidence, and present a defense to disprove the allegations.
• Can a restraining order affect my immigration status?
  If you are a non-U.S. citizen, a restraining order may have implications for your immigration status, especially if your abuser is a U.S. citizen. However, there are specific protections in place for immigrants in abusive relationships, including the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which allows certain individuals to seek legal status independently of their abuser. Speak with an attorney familiar with both domestic violence and immigration law for personalized guidance.
• Can I seek financial support while going through a domestic violence case?
  Yes, you may be able to seek financial support in cases of domestic violence, especially if you are in financial distress due to the abuse. The court may order temporary spousal support, child support, or other financial provisions while your case is ongoing. Additionally, some victims may be eligible for financial assistance from domestic violence shelters or victim support programs.

Let Our Burleson Domestic Violence Attorneys Help You Today

At Coontz Cochran, we take each domestic violence case extremely seriously, and we are honored to be able to serve those who need our help the most. Together, we can seek a fair ending to your marriage that keeps your best interests in mind. 

If you feel it is necessary, we can even assist you in filing for a restraining order against your abusive spouse. As a victim of domestic violence, or as someone wrongfully accused of committing a domestic violence crime, you can get started down the right path by scheduling a free consultation with a Burleson domestic violence lawyer our team today.

Facing domestic violence? Contact us now at (888) 858-0536. Let our experienced team help you get the protection you deserve.