Minneapolis Order for Protection Lawyer
An Order for Protection (OFP) is a civil court order intended to protect someone from harm by a family or household member. These cases often arise alongside allegations of domestic assault or other family-related disputes. Whether you are seeking protection as the Petitioner or defending yourself as the Respondent, the outcome can have a major impact on your life, your family, and your future.
If you are accused of violating an Order for Protection, you could face criminal penalties. A first violation may be charged as a misdemeanor. A second violation can be charged as a gross misdemeanor, which may carry up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $3,000.
Contact me today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Judith Samson represents both Petitioners seeking protection and Respondents defending against an Order for Protection.
If you are a Petitioner, you may need immediate legal help to seek court protection for yourself and your children. If you are a Respondent, you may be facing serious restrictions based on allegations that are incomplete, exaggerated, or untrue. In either situation, it is important to have an experienced attorney who understands the legal process and will protect your rights.
There are two different types of Orders for Protection – the Ex Parte Order for Protection and the Full Order for Protection.
If a judge finds there is an immediate and present danger of domestic abuse, the court may issue an Ex Parte Order for Protection. An Ex Parte OFP can be granted before the Respondent has the opportunity to tell his or her side of the story. Even so, the order must be followed unless and until it is changed by the court.
A Full Order for Protection may be issued after a hearing where both the Petitioner and the Respondent have the opportunity to appear, present evidence, and explain their side of the story before the judge makes a decision.
What Is at Stake in an Order for Protection Case?
If an Order for Protection is issued against you, you could be facing serious consequences, including:
- Being ordered to stay away from the other party and possibly any minor children
- Being removed from your home or prohibited from returning to a shared residence
- Being ordered to stay away from the other party’s workplace
- Being prohibited from contacting the other party by phone, email, mail, text message, social media, or through another person
An OFP may also affect child custody, parenting time, possession of the home, counseling requirements, and other important rights. For Petitioners, these cases can be critical to personal safety and family stability. For Respondents, these cases can affect freedom, reputation, parenting rights, and future criminal exposure.
In most cases, an Order for Protection lasts up to two years. However, in certain cases involving prior violations or a history of abuse, the court may issue an order for a much longer period. If you violate an Order for Protection, you may face criminal charges and additional penalties.
Whether You Need to File for Protection or Defend Against One, Contact Judith Samson Today
Judith Samson represents both individuals seeking an Order for Protection and those responding to one. She can assess your situation, explain your options, and advocate for your rights in court. Whether you are trying to protect yourself and your family or defend yourself against serious allegations, it is important to act quickly and get experienced legal advice.
For a free initial consultation, contact Judith Samson, Minnesota Criminal Lawyer at 612-333-8001.
