What should I do if a restraining order has been filed against me in New Jersey?

If a temporary restraining order has been filed against you, the most important thing you can do is comply with every condition of that order immediately and completely, and contact an experienced attorney right away. The final restraining order hearing will typically be scheduled within ten days, and that hearing is your opportunity to present your side of the story and challenge the allegations against you. An attorney can help you gather evidence, prepare your testimony, identify witnesses, and present a compelling case at the hearing. If a final restraining order is entered against you without a proper defense, it is permanent and carries lifelong consequences.

Can domestic violence charges be dropped if the alleged victim does not want to press charges?

In New Jersey, the decision to pursue criminal charges belongs to the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. Even if the alleged victim recants their statement, declines to cooperate, or formally requests that charges be dropped, the state has the authority to proceed with the case using other available evidence. Prosecutors in domestic violence cases are trained to anticipate situations where alleged victims change their position, and they often build their cases around evidence that does not depend on the victim's active participation, including police reports, photographs, medical records, and prior statements.

What is the difference between a temporary restraining order and a final restraining order in NJ?

A temporary restraining order, commonly referred to as a TRO, is issued immediately following a domestic violence complaint, typically on an emergency basis and often without the defendant present. It goes into effect right away and remains in place until the final restraining order hearing, which is usually scheduled within ten days. A final restraining order, or FRO, is issued after a hearing in which both parties have the opportunity to present evidence and testimony. If a final restraining order is entered, it is permanent in New Jersey and cannot be lifted simply because the parties reconcile.

How can a domestic violence charge affect my child custody case?

A domestic violence charge or conviction can have a significant impact on child custody and parenting time determinations in New Jersey. Family courts are required by law to consider evidence of domestic violence when making custody decisions, and a finding of domestic violence can result in restricted parenting time, supervised visitation, or, in serious cases, the loss of custody entirely. Having an attorney who can represent you in both the criminal and family court proceedings simultaneously is essential to protecting your parental rights throughout this process.

Will a domestic violence conviction stay on my record permanently in New Jersey?

In many cases, yes. Domestic violence convictions in New Jersey can result in a long-lasting criminal record that may be discoverable through background checks and can affect your employment, housing, and professional licensing for the rest of your life. Additionally, a final restraining order entered against you is a permanent civil record that also appears in background searches. New Jersey does allow for the expungement of certain criminal convictions after a waiting period, but not all domestic violence offenses qualify, and expungement does not remove a restraining order from your record.

Mount Laurel Domestic Violence Lawyer | Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ

Attorneys Hartman, Chartered/

Mount Laurel Domestic Violence Lawyer

When the Stakes Could Not Be Higher, a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ, Is Here to Protect Your Rights

Domestic violence charges are among the most serious and life-altering accusations a person can face in New Jersey. A single allegation can set off a chain of events that strips you of your home, separates you from your children, ends your career, and permanently damages the relationships and reputation you have spent a lifetime building. The legal consequences alone, including jail time, permanent restraining orders, the loss of firearm rights, and a criminal record, are severe enough to change the course of your life forever. At Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, our Mount Laurel domestic violence lawyer team understands the enormous weight these charges carry, and we are committed to providing the aggressive, thorough defense that every person accused of domestic violence deserves.

What makes domestic violence cases particularly complex is the intensely personal environment in which they arise. These charges come out of marriages, relationships, families, and households, settings where emotions run high, histories are complicated, and the line between a genuine dispute and a criminal allegation can sometimes be difficult to define. The legal system's response to these charges is swift and unforgiving. From the moment a call is made to law enforcement, mandatory arrest policies and automatic protective orders can go into effect before anyone has had a chance to fully understand what happened.

If you or someone you care about is facing domestic violence charges in Mount Laurel, do not face this alone. Contact a dedicated domestic violence defense attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ, at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Our team is ready to listen to your side of the story, evaluate your case honestly, and begin building the strongest possible defense on your behalf.

When the Stakes Could Not Be Higher, a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ, Is Here to Protect Your Rights
Types of Domestic Violence Cases We Handle in Mount Laurel, NJ
The Legal Process for Domestic Violence Cases in Mount Laurel, NJ
Common Mistakes People Make When Facing Domestic Violence Charges: Why You Need a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ
Defense Strategies in Domestic Violence Cases
What Every Mount Laurel Domestic Violence Lawyer Knows About Local Courts and Burlington County
Contact an Experienced Mount Laurel Domestic Violence Lawyer at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, for a Free Consultation

Types of Domestic Violence Cases We Handle in Mount Laurel, NJ

Our Mount Laurel domestic violence lawyer team has developed deep experience handling domestic violence matters throughout Burlington County, and we bring a thorough understanding of both New Jersey's Prevention of Domestic Violence Act and the specific ways these cases are handled in local courts. Our firm handles the following types of domestic violence cases in Mount Laurel and throughout Burlington County:

Domestic assault cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: We defend clients against simple assault, aggravated assault, and related charges arising from alleged physical altercations between household or family members.
Harassment and stalking cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: We represent individuals accused of harassment or stalking under New Jersey's domestic violence statutes, including cases involving repeated communications, unwanted contact, and pattern-of-conduct allegations.
Restraining order violation cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: Violating a restraining order in New Jersey is a criminal offense that can result in immediate arrest and serious penalties, and we provide skilled defense for clients facing these charges.
Criminal mischief and property damage cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: Allegations involving the intentional destruction or damage of property in a domestic setting can carry significant criminal consequences that we are prepared to challenge.
Terroristic threat cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: Charges involving alleged threats to commit violence against a household or family member are taken seriously by New Jersey courts, and we provide aggressive defense for clients facing these accusations.
False imprisonment cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: We defend clients accused of unlawfully restraining or confining a domestic partner or family member against their will, a charge that can arise from a wide range of disputed situations.
Cyber harassment cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: With the rise of digital communication, cyber harassment has become an increasingly common basis for domestic violence charges, and we understand both the legal and technical dimensions of these cases.
Child abuse and endangerment cases in Mount Laurel, NJ: Allegations involving the abuse or endangerment of a child in a domestic setting carry some of the most severe consequences in the legal system, and we provide thorough, dedicated defense for clients facing these charges.
And more: Domestic violence law covers a broad range of offenses and circumstances. If your situation is not reflected in the list above, contact Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, to discuss your case and find out how we can help.

No matter what type of domestic violence matter you are facing, the right legal representation can make an enormous difference in how your case is resolved. Our team is equipped to handle every dimension of your case with the skill, local knowledge, and personal commitment your situation demands.

856-393-6073Get Help Today. Tell Us Your Story.

The Legal Process for Domestic Violence Cases in Mount Laurel, NJ

New Jersey has one of the most aggressive mandatory arrest policies for domestic violence in the country. When law enforcement responds to a domestic violence call, New Jersey law often requires an arrest in certain circumstances where probable cause exists, particularly when there are signs of injury or other qualifying factors. Following the arrest, a temporary restraining order is typically issued automatically, which can prohibit you from returning to your home, contacting the alleged victim, and, in many cases, seeing your children. Having a domestic violence defense attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ, involved as early as possible is so important precisely because this happens quickly, often before you have had any opportunity to tell your side of the story.

After a temporary restraining order is issued, a final restraining order hearing is scheduled, typically within ten days. This hearing is held in the Family Division of the Superior Court and is a civil proceeding in which the alleged victim must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that domestic violence occurred and that a final restraining order is necessary. If a final restraining order is entered against you, it is indefinite in New Jersey and does not expire unless modified or dismissed by the court. It will appear in background checks, restrict where you can live and work, and bar you from possessing firearms indefinitely while the restraining order remains in effect.

It is also critical to understand that domestic violence cases in New Jersey typically involve two separate legal proceedings running simultaneously. The criminal case addresses potential jail time, fines, and a criminal record. The civil restraining order proceeding determines whether a permanent restraining order will be entered against you. These two tracks are legally distinct, and having an attorney who can represent you effectively in both is essential to protecting your rights and your future on every front.

Common Mistakes People Make When Facing Domestic Violence Charges: Why You Need a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ

The period immediately following a domestic violence arrest is one of the most critical and most dangerous times for a defendant. Here are the most common mistakes people make and why avoiding them matters:

Violating a temporary restraining order, even if the alleged victim initiates contact: A temporary restraining order is a court order that remains in full legal effect regardless of whether the alleged victim contacts you first. Responding in any way can result in a separate criminal charge and will be used against you in both proceedings.
Speaking to police or providing a written statement without an attorney present: You have the right to remain silent, and you should exercise it immediately. Statements made without an attorney present are frequently taken out of context or used in ways you did not anticipate.
Posting about the situation on social media: Anything you post online following a domestic violence arrest can be scrutinized by prosecutors and used as evidence against you. Refrain from posting anything about the incident, the alleged victim, or your legal situation on any platform.
Attempting to handle the case without experienced legal representation: Domestic violence cases involve two simultaneous legal proceedings, strict timelines, and consequences that can follow you for the rest of your life. Navigating this process without an attorney puts you at an overwhelming disadvantage.
Assuming the charges will be dropped if the alleged victim does not wish to cooperate: In New Jersey, the decision to pursue criminal charges rests with the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. The state can and often does proceed with the case using other evidence, even when an alleged victim declines to cooperate.

Defense Strategies in Domestic Violence Cases

A skilled Mount Laurel domestic violence lawyer knows how to challenge the evidence, the circumstances, and the credibility of the allegations against you. Here are the most common and effective defense strategies we use on behalf of our clients:

False or exaggerated accusations: Accusations are sometimes made in the heat of a contentious divorce, in the midst of a child custody dispute, or as a result of a misunderstanding that escalated beyond what either party intended. We examine the timeline of events, the relationship between the parties, any prior legal proceedings between them, and the consistency of the alleged victim's account to identify inconsistencies and build a compelling defense.

Self-defense and mutual combat: New Jersey law recognizes the right to self-defense, and it applies in domestic situations just as it does in any other context. If you used force to protect yourself from harm, that is a legitimate legal defense. Mutual combat situations can also raise meaningful questions about who bears responsibility for what occurred.

Lack of evidence and witness credibility: Many domestic violence cases come down to one person's word against another's, with little independent evidence. Inconsistencies between the alleged victim's initial statement and their later account, a history of false allegations, motivations to fabricate, and the absence of physical evidence are all factors that can significantly weaken the prosecution's case.

Constitutional violations during the arrest: If officers entered your home without a valid warrant or exigent circumstances, conducted an unlawful search, or failed to properly advise you of your Miranda rights, the evidence obtained may be subject to suppression. Identifying these violations is one of the first things we look for when reviewing a new domestic violence case.

What Every Mount Laurel Domestic Violence Lawyer Knows About Local Courts and Burlington County

Domestic violence is a significant legal and community issue throughout Burlington County, and Mount Laurel is no exception. The township's large residential population means that domestic violence calls and the charges that follow them are a regular part of the local court docket. Law enforcement in Mount Laurel takes a proactive approach to domestic violence response, and New Jersey's mandatory arrest policy means that officers arriving at a domestic disturbance are required to make an arrest if probable cause exists.

Criminal charges are processed either in the Mount Laurel Municipal Court for disorderly persons offenses or in the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly for indictable crimes. Civil restraining order proceedings are handled in the Family Division of Burlington County Superior Court. Both venues require a domestic violence defense attorney in Mount Laurel, NJ, who is familiar with how these cases are managed locally, how Burlington County judges approach restraining order hearings, and how prosecutors in this region handle domestic violence prosecutions. At Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, we have built that kind of local familiarity through years of practice in Burlington County.

Contact an Experienced Mount Laurel Domestic Violence Lawyer at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, for a Free Consultation

Domestic violence charges demand immediate attention and experienced legal representation, and the sooner you act, the more options you will have. A dedicated Mount Laurel domestic violence lawyer at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, is ready to review the details of your case, explain your rights, and begin building a defense strategy designed to protect your freedom, your family, and your future. We offer a free, confidential initial consultation with no obligation, and we are committed to providing affordable, transparent representation so that the cost of legal help is never a barrier to getting the defense you deserve. Fill out our online contact form today to schedule your free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Charges in Mount Laurel, New Jersey

If a temporary restraining order has been filed against you, the most important thing you can do is comply with every condition of that order immediately and completely, and contact an experienced attorney right away. The final restraining order hearing will typically be scheduled within ten days, and that hearing is your opportunity to present your side of the story and challenge the allegations against you. An attorney can help you gather evidence, prepare your testimony, identify witnesses, and present a compelling case at the hearing. If a final restraining order is entered against you without a proper defense, it is permanent and carries lifelong consequences.
In New Jersey, the decision to pursue criminal charges belongs to the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. Even if the alleged victim recants their statement, declines to cooperate, or formally requests that charges be dropped, the state has the authority to proceed with the case using other available evidence. Prosecutors in domestic violence cases are trained to anticipate situations where alleged victims change their position, and they often build their cases around evidence that does not depend on the victim's active participation, including police reports, photographs, medical records, and prior statements.
A temporary restraining order, commonly referred to as a TRO, is issued immediately following a domestic violence complaint, typically on an emergency basis and often without the defendant present. It goes into effect right away and remains in place until the final restraining order hearing, which is usually scheduled within ten days. A final restraining order, or FRO, is issued after a hearing in which both parties have the opportunity to present evidence and testimony. If a final restraining order is entered, it is permanent in New Jersey and cannot be lifted simply because the parties reconcile.
A domestic violence charge or conviction can have a significant impact on child custody and parenting time determinations in New Jersey. Family courts are required by law to consider evidence of domestic violence when making custody decisions, and a finding of domestic violence can result in restricted parenting time, supervised visitation, or, in serious cases, the loss of custody entirely. Having an attorney who can represent you in both the criminal and family court proceedings simultaneously is essential to protecting your parental rights throughout this process.
In many cases, yes. Domestic violence convictions in New Jersey can result in a long-lasting criminal record that may be discoverable through background checks and can affect your employment, housing, and professional licensing for the rest of your life. Additionally, a final restraining order entered against you is a permanent civil record that also appears in background searches. New Jersey does allow for the expungement of certain criminal convictions after a waiting period, but not all domestic violence offenses qualify, and expungement does not remove a restraining order from your record.

Meet Your Team

Katherine D. Hartman, Esquire

Katherine D. Hartman is the Managing Partner in the Moorestown, New Jersey law office of Attorneys Hartman, Chartered, which has been named one of America’s Best Law Firms by U.S. News and World Report. She concentrates her practice in employment discrimination, criminal defense, police disciplinary matters, and other employment law issues. Katie has been practicing law for over thirty years. She was admitted to the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Bars in 1991, the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in November of 1993, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals in November of 2002, and the Supreme Court of the United States in October of 2002.

Katie has been awarded the highest (AV) rating for professional ability and high ethical standards, by Martindale Hubbell. Additionally, Katie has consistently been voted a Super Lawyer by New Jersey Magazine. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations. She was named one of the Top Forty Lawyers under Forty by the New Jersey Law Journal in 2002.

Michael C. Mormando, Esquire

Michael C. Mormando has been practicing law for over twenty years, and is a Partner at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered. Mike is an active member in the Burlington County Bar Association, he is a former Chair of the Bar Associations’ Criminal Practice Committee, and he formerly served as a member of the Supreme Court of New Jersey District Ethics Committee for Burlington County, District III-B. Mike also served two years as Councilman for Ward 3 in Delran Township, having been elected to the post in the November 2018 general election, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Delran Township Zoning Board.

Mike’s areas of practice include criminal defense, DUI defense, traffic violation defense, employment law, discrimination and whistleblower cases, unemployment compensation appeals, labor representation for collective bargaining units, employment contract review and negotiations, and defense in police disciplinary matters. Mike is approved by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) as a lawyer who can represent law enforcement officers who face disciplinary or criminal charges. Mike also represents small business owners concerning employment issues.