Kentucky Family Attorney Helps Establish Protection Orders for Victims of Abuse
Georgetown firm advocates for clients who face threats
Though the criminal justice system punishes people who commit illegal acts like domestic violence and sexual assault, the damage to victims is already done. However, you can take legal steps to protect yourself before violence occurs. When threats or past acts cause you to fear an attack from a particular person, Larmour Law Offices, PSC in Georgetown offers immediate legal assistance so you can petition for an order of protection prohibiting the respondent from contacting you. Attorney Ashley Larmour has extensive experience in Central Kentucky courts and offers exceptional representation to petitioners and respondents in civil protection order proceedings.
Types of protective orders
Under Kentucky law, once a protective order is in place, a violation can lead to a contempt of court citation or criminal charge. There are two distinctive types distinguished by the connection between the potential victim and the subject of the order:
- Domestic Violence Order — Someone can request a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) if they have been abused or threatened by a family member or a relationship partner. This includes spouses, relatives, unmarried co-parents and live-in boyfriends and girlfriends. We understand how emotional these matters can be and provide strong guidance to help you protect yourself.
- Interpersonal Protective Order — If you believe you are in danger from a stalker, someone whom you have dated or a person who previously committed a crime against you, our firm can assist in obtaining an Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO). Don’t be intimidated by the legal process. We can explain the issues clearly and give you the support you need to take effective action.
As both a family lawyer and a litigator experienced in criminal defense matters, Ms. Larmour gives clients knowledgeable counsel about the evidence needed to establish an order of protection and also advocates for parties in proceedings related to the enforcement of an existing order.
Starting the process of obtaining a protective order
The party seeking a protective order can tailor their request to fit their particular circumstances. Typically, the order would prevent in-person contact, phone calls, emails and social media messages between the parties. However, in a situation where the petitioner and respondent have children together, some accommodation might be necessary for key parenting issues. Our firm can prepare the necessary petition and supporting documents for filing in the relevant Circuit Court. Depending on the circumstances, the judge might issue an Emergency Protective Order or Temporary Interpersonal Protective Order barring the respondent from making contact until a full hearing can be held.
Legal standard in a protective order determination
Both the petitioner and respondent are able to tell their side of the story in a DVO or IPO hearing. The person seeking to establish the order must show by a preponderance of the evidence that they have been abused or are likely to be abused. Someone petitioning for an order of protection does not have to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If granted, the order can remain in place for up to three years, so it is critical to have an attorney who can gather the necessary information quickly and deliver a compelling argument on your behalf.
Contact a Kentucky lawyer for a consultation about an order of protection
Larmour Law Offices, PSC represents Kentucky residents in legal proceedings where one party seeks an order of protection against their abuser or potential abuser. To speak with an experienced attorney in an initial consultation at our Georgetown office, please call 859-813-5614 or contact us online.