Domestic Violence Lawyers in Stamford, CT

Protective & Restraining Orders

Connecticut courts may issue different forms of protective relief depending on the circumstances.

A restraining order (civil) or a protective order (criminal) may:

• Prohibit an individual from contacting or approaching the other party
• Require the accused to vacate a shared home
• Establish temporary custody or visitation restrictions
• Address financial support or use of property

Violating such orders can result in serious criminal penalties, including incarceration. Whether you need to seek protection or defend against allegations, it is critical to have experienced legal counsel guiding you through this process.

In many cases, there are both criminal and family court proceedings happening at the same time, especially in and around Stamford and Westport. We help clients understand how a protective order in a criminal case can affect related family matters, such as who can remain in the home or how parenting time is arranged. By coordinating strategy across courts, we work to reduce unexpected conflicts and help you make informed decisions about safety, compliance, and next steps.

Responding To A Domestic Violence Allegation

If you are involved in a domestic violence situation, the choices you make in the hours and days after an incident can have a lasting impact on your case. You may be facing arrest, a temporary order from the Stamford criminal court, and emergency changes to where you can live or when you can see your children. We guide you through each of these developments so you understand what you are required to do, what your options are, and how your decisions may affect any divorce or custody proceedings that follow.

When you reach out to our firm, we can help you prepare for arraignments, interviews, and hearings, and we can explain what to expect from the Family Violence Intervention Unit and other local agencies involved in Connecticut domestic violence matters. Our goal is to help you avoid missteps, gather important documents and information, and begin building a clear, honest account of what happened so you are ready to work with a domestic violence attorney in a focused and productive way.

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Divorce

Allegations or findings of domestic violence can have a significant impact on divorce or other family law proceedings. Judges may weigh evidence of abuse when determining child custody, visitation rights, spousal support, and even property division. 

For survivors, demonstrating a history of abuse may be critical in securing safe custody arrangements and financial stability. Defending against claims is equally essential for those accused to avoid unfair parental rights restrictions or financial obligations. 

Our firm understands how these issues intersect and is prepared to protect our clients’ interests in every aspect of the divorce or post-divorce process.

We also recognize that evidence of abuse or false allegations often emerges over time through text messages, emails, financial records, or witness testimony. We work closely with you to gather and organize this information so it can be clearly presented in negotiations or in court. When a matter is heard in the Stamford or Bridgeport family courts, we prepare you for how judges may consider these facts in shaping parenting plans, support orders, and long-term financial arrangements.