Here are the steps to take before hiring a domestic violence lawyer in East Brunswick: stay safe, call for help, know your rights, collect evidence, and choose a compassionate lawyer who listens.
When you face a situation involving domestic violence, it can feel confusing and suffocating. Fear, sadness, and anger can all come at once. It’s hard to know who to trust or where to turn.
You might worry about your safety, your children, or your home. But there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your future.
A domestic violence lawyer in East Brunswick can help you understand what the law says and what your next steps should be. Before hiring one, it’s good to prepare yourself and know a few key things.
Step 1: Make Sure You Are Safe
Your safety is the most important thing. If you feel in danger, get to a safe place right away. You can go to a friend’s home or a family member’s place. You can call 911 for help. If you have kids, take them with you.
You can also call a local shelter or hotline. They will guide you and help you find a safe place to stay.
Step 2: Keep All Proof & Records
If someone hurt you or accused you, keep proof of what happened. This means saving text messages, pictures, or notes. If you visited a doctor or contacted the police, keep those documents as well.
When you meet your domestic violence lawyer in East Brunswick, bring all your notes and papers. They will read everything and decide what will help your case the most.
Step 3: Do Not Talk to the Other Person
Do not talk to the person who hurt you or the one who made the complaint. Do not text or call them. Do not post about them on social media. Anything you say could be used against you later.
Instead, write down what happens each day. Keep a small notebook. This will help you remember the details when you speak to your lawyer.
If your case involves your marriage or children, a family divorce lawyer in Newark can also assist you with those aspects. They are knowledgeable about child custody, family rights, and divorce proceedings.
Step 4: Learn About Restraining Orders
A restraining order is a court order that requires one person to stay away from another. It helps keep people safe. There are two types of restraining orders in New Jersey.
A Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is for short-term safety. It keeps you safe until the court makes a full decision. A Final Restraining Order (FRO) lasts longer and has stronger rules.
Your domestic violence lawyer in East Brunswick will explain what each order means. They will tell you what is best for your situation. They will also help you understand what happens if the other person breaks the order.
Step 5: Find a Lawyer Who Knows Domestic Violence Law
Not all lawyers handle domestic violence cases. You should find one who knows both family law and criminal law. A domestic violence lawyer understands both sides and can protect your rights.
Step 6: Write Down All Your Questions.
Before you meet your lawyer, write down your questions. You might ask:
- What can I do right now?
- What will happen in court?
- What should I avoid doing?
- How long will this take?
- What happens if the other person lies?
Step 7: Stay Calm & Tell the Truth to Your Lawyer.
Always tell your lawyer the truth. Do not hide anything. Your lawyer is there to help, not to judge you. When they know everything, they can protect you better.
Sometimes, people feel shy to talk about their problems. But remember, your lawyer has helped many people before. They understand what you are going through. You can trust them.
How Perez Family Law Can Help You at This Time
Perez Family Law helps people dealing with domestic violence in East Brunswick. Our team provides professional legal help.
We help both people who need protection and people who are wrongly accused. We listen carefully, act fast, and fight for your rights.
Call Us Now!