Protective Orders

Protective Orders in Tennessee

If you are facing a protective order in Tennessee, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options. Protective orders, also known as orders of protection or restraining orders, can have significant impacts on your life.

Our experienced domestic violence defense attorney at Clarke Law Firm is here to help you navigate this challenging situation.

What Is a Protective Order?

A protective order is a legal document issued by a court to protect an individual from harassment, stalking, or abuse by another person.

In cases involving allegations of domestic violence, a protective order can:

● Restrict you from contacting or communicating with the petitioner

● Require you to move out of a shared residence

● Impact your child’s custody and visitation rights

● Affect your ability to possess firearms

Types of Protective Orders

In Tennessee, there are generally two types:

Temporary (Ex Parte) Protective Orders

Issued without your presence in court, these orders provide immediate protection to the petitioner until a full hearing can be held.

Extended Protective Orders

After a court hearing in which both parties present evidence, the judge may issue an order that can last one year or more.

Consequences of a Protective Order

Being subject to a protective order can have serious consequences, including:

● Criminal Charges: Violating the terms of a protective order is a criminal offense and can lead to arrest.

● Employment Issues: Protective orders may appear in background checks, potentially affecting job opportunities.

● Reputation Damage: Allegations of domestic violence can harm your personal and professional relationships.

How Our Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Can Help

At Clarke Law Firm, we understand the complexities surrounding such orders and domestic violence accusations.

Our skilled attorney will:

Review the Allegations: We will thoroughly examine the claims against you to identify inconsistencies or false accusations.

Represent You in Court: Our attorney will advocate on your behalf during hearings to challenge the issuance of an extended protective order.

Protect Your Rights: We aim to minimize the impact on your life by fighting for fair outcomes regarding housing, custody, and other affected areas.

Provide Legal Guidance: Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming. We will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your options.