Protective Orders

October is domestic violence month and as family law attorneys we see too many cases of domestic violence.  Domestic violence can occur against men and women. The Courts have set up three levels of protective orders in an attempt to put safeguards in place for those cases where allegations of threats or acts of family harm are substantiated.  Domestic violence can occur against men and women.  An emergency protective can be granted for a period of 72 hours; a preliminary protective order can be granted for a period of two weeks; and a protective order can be granted for up to two years.  Protective orders can award remedies that include a "stay away" provision, exclusive use and possession of a residence, exclusive use and possession of a vehicle, payment of utilities.