Being the subject of a protection order or restraining order usually does not mean a person has been charged with a criminal offense. However, violating the order may result in criminal charges being filed and the person being arrested. This individual now needs legal representation by a Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbus IN to prevent serious consequences.
Types of Protection Orders
The two most common types of protection orders are domestic violence orders and civil harassment orders. In the first, a victim of domestic violence seeks a restraining order so the abuser cannot come within a certain distance of the victim or the person’s home and workplace. In the second, a man or woman who has been stalking or otherwise harassing someone receives notice of a restraining order with similar restrictions. In both instances, other types of contact usually are prohibited as well. That includes calling, texting, emailing, or approaching on social media.
Possible Consequences
Depending on the circumstances, the consequences for violating a restraining order can be severe. The charge may be a misdemeanor or a felony. Often, at least some time behind bars is part of the sentence. A felony conviction of violating a protection order could result in more than a year in prison along with a steep fine. It becomes clear why the individual accused of violating the order needs legal representation by a Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbus IN.
Most commonly, a felony charge is filed if the person previously violated an order of protection with a specific time frame. Some men and women find it challenging to abide by the restrictions. They feel compelled to make contact with the person they are prohibited from seeing.
Defense Strategies
A frequent defense strategy by a firm such as Alcorn Sage Schwartz & Magrath LLP is to convince a judge or the prosecution that the violation was unintentional. This can occur when the person accidentally goes to the same place where the protected individual happens to be. In other instances, the one who requested the order contacts the other person but reports the contact if the meeting does not go well. Anyone needing assistance with these matters may visit the website.
