Domestic Violence

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Domestic Violence Attorneys In Bay Area California

Navigating Your Unique Situation

Domestic violence is serious. It impacts families from all walks of life. It destroys relationships, scars memories, and leaves lasting damage – mental and physical – on those it affects. If you have experienced domestic violence, know that we are here to support you with compassion and understanding. 

Contact Williams, Drexler, & Mand PC at 925-247-3868  or schedule free initial consultation with a family lawyer today.

Restraining Orders

A restraining order (also called a “protective order”) is a court order that can protect someone from being physically or sexually abused, threatened, stalked, or harassed. The person getting the restraining order is called the “protected person.” The person the restraining order is against is the “restrained person.” Sometimes, restraining orders include other “protected persons” like family or household members of the protected person.​


If you or your children are in danger, you should contact the police or a domestic abuse shelter immediately. Our firm will assist our clients in filing and obtaining a restraining order if necessary. If a restraining order has been filed against you, we can provide you with advice on how to proceed. If related to your divorce or family law matter, we can handle all issues related to restraining orders and orders for protection, including:

  • Domestic abuse
  • Child abuse
  • Harassment
  • Custody issues (i.e., child visitation)
  • Safety issues
  • Issues with drug and alcohol addiction

Domestic violence is very real, and law enforcement takes allegations or domestic and child abuse seriously. However, this issue also can be used as a weapon in contested divorces. We have seen many instances in which false charges of domestic violence were made in order to give the accuser the upper hand in a custody dispute or other family law matter. If this applies to your situation we have experience that will help you navigate this potential minefield.

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Consequences of a restraining Order

A restraining order will make it illegal for the abuser (the respondent) to come within a certain distance of the abused (the petitioner). The respondent can be ordered to remain a certain distance from the petitioner's home and place of employment, even if they live and work in the same place. A restraining order can also significantly affect custody and visitation orders.

Process After Initial Filing

Once a request for a temporary restraining order is filed, the family court determines whether there is probable cause for a restraining order to be granted. If that determination is made, the court issues a temporary restraining order. During this time, the respondent cannot have any contact with the petitioner. In about 3 weeks after the temporary restraining order is issued, both parties must appear at a hearing to decide whether it will stay in force. If the judge keeps the order in force, it can last for up to five years. Otherwise, the restraining order petition can be dismissed on the day of the hearing. Both parties may hire attorneys to represent them at this hearing.

Offering Hope in Times of Struggle

The sooner you take action and contact an attorney, the better. Domestic violence cases are emotionally charged, which can push involved parties to send nasty text messages, return to their home after being served an order of protection, or worse. Our dedicated team is here to offer you hope and get your case moving in the right direction fast. So don’t hesitate to reach out now. You won’t be met with judgment. 

Call Williams, Drexler, & Mand PC at 925-247-3868 or contact online to schedule a free initial consultation with a family law attorney in the Bay Area California.

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