Domestic Violence/Protective Orders

No one should have to live under the threat of violence or domestic abuse, especially in one's own home. The law offers protection to persons who have suffered abuse at the hands of a family member, household member, or person with whom one has or has had a relationship.

The lawyers at The Law Offices of Burch, Coulston & Buncher, L.L.P. can obtain an emergency protective order in cases involving domestic violence or threats of domestic violence. We can then seek to obtain a permanent protective order, and if further violence or threats occur, can seek to enforce the order.

Our firm also defends clients against false accusations of domestic violence.

In either case, it is extremely important to obtain legal representation as soon as possible. Call us at 949.202.5728 or 866.909.6059 for help.

There are three types of domestic violence protective orders:

• Emergency Protective Order — obtained on no notice to the other party. Goes into effect immediately.
• Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) — lasts for a period of 15 days or until the hearing for the Permanent Restraining Order, whichever is later.
• Permanent Restraining Order — issued after a court hearing in which the alleged abuser has an opportunity to respond. When issued, the permanent restraining order can last up to 5 years and can be renewed for additional periods.

Our attorneys can act quickly to obtain an order of protection for you and other family members and petition the court to make the order permanent, when necessary.

False Accusations of Domestic Violence

In other situations, particularly those involving divorce or child custody disputes, one party may make false accusations of violence against the other party in an attempt to gain an advantage.

When a protective order is placed against you, it can dramatically affect your child custody or visitation rights, your right to own a firearm, and in some cases, your job. Persons accused of domestic violence should, if at all possible, avoid the imposition of a protective order.

In cases involving domestic violence allegations or spousal abuse, the Court has some discretion. A well-argued case supported by facts can result in a favorable outcome for a person falsely accused of domestic violence.

The Law Offices of Burch, Coulston & Buncher, L.L.P. understands how to prepare a convincing case and can represent you in order to protect your rights, your record, and your reputation.

For a consultation with a domestic violence lawyer at The Law Offices of Burch, Coulston & Buncher, call 949.202.5728 or 866.909.6059 or contact us online. We serve clients throughout Orange County, including the cities of Irvine and Newport Beach.