Domestic violence affects many families. Family law offers legal protections to help keep victims safe. These protections are designed to prevent further harm and provide relief to those affected.
Here are some legal tools that can protect family members from violence and abuse.
What is domestic violence?
Under New Hampshire law, domestic violence includes certain abusive acts committed by a family or household member, or a current or former intimate partner. These acts can include assault, sexual assault, stalking, criminal threatening and other offenses that pose a present threat to the victim’s safety.
Types of protective orders
There are several types of protective orders available in New Hampshire. These include:
- Emergency protective orders: Issued when courts are closed. These orders can be requested through law enforcement and last until the next business day.
- Temporary ex parte orders: Granted by a judge without the abuser present if there is an immediate danger. These orders last until a full court hearing.
- Final protective orders: Issued after a court hearing where both sides can present evidence. These may last up to one year and can be extended.
Protective orders in New Hampshire can provide several forms of relief, such as:
- Prohibiting the abuser from approaching the victim or getting in touch.
Granting temporary custody of children.
Requiring the surrender of firearms or dangerous weapons.
Demanding that the abuser stay away from the victim’s home, workplace or school.
These legal tools are designed to help protect individuals from future harm and create safer environments for victims and their families. While the police can protect you from immediate threats, there are also family laws designed to keep you safe.
