Domestic Violence

Gresham Domestic Violence Lawyers

When faced with violence or threats of violence, it is important to know there are laws available in Oregon for your protection. The Family Abuse Protection Act (FAPA) can quickly prevent further contact and prevent abuse from a violent partner, family member or spouse. If you obtain a FAPA order, your partner is not allowed to contact you except under specific circumstances or he or she is subject to immediate arrest. Of course, there are limited reasons when a court will award you a FAPA order. The Oregon Department of Human Services provides helpful information which is listed below.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon that arguments can become heated and even physical in an intimate relationship. Don’t be ashamed if this happens to you and be aware that often the abuser will often attempt to make you feel as if the violence is your fault or you desire the punishment. Often, as a victim of domestic abuse, you don’t know who to turn to, or what legal protections are available. If you are afraid for your safety, first contact law enforcement by dialing 911. Then contact one of our Gresham domestic violence attorneys, to assist you in gaining freedom and safety from those who are attempting to control you through physical, verbal or financial intimidation. If you can’t afford an attorney, there are numerous organizations that can provide you legal help listed below.

Helpful links:

• https://apps.state.or.us/Forms/Served/de7808.pdf
• https://apps.state.or.us/Forms/Served/de1540.pdf
• http://www.portlandonline.com/gatewaycenter/
• http://bradleyangle.org

Multnomah County Domestic Abuse Attorneys

If you are the victim of domestic abuse, we strongly encourage you to contact law enforcement and a lawyer at Gresham Family & Bankruptcy Law. Although “self-help” forms are provided by the State Court, this is an important step and you may wish to have specific questions answered before you file. Remember, you must request a FAPA order within 180 days of the incident. Also, one of our lawyers can help you complete the necessary paperwork required to obtain a restraining order (FAPA order). This may be the first step in providing a safe environment for you and your children.

Whether you are suffering domestic violence at the hands of a boyfriend or girlfriend, or domestic abuse at the hands of your spouse, it is crucial that you act quickly to protect yourself and prevent further harm. Let our experienced Oregon attorneys provide the legal guidance and representation you need in this challenging time in your life.

Gresham Restraining Order Defense

If you are served with a FAPA order, review it carefully and be sure to follow it to the letter. A violation of the Order can subject you to being immediately placed in jail, even if the Order is later found to be unwarranted.

Remember that a FAPA Order is issued by the court to the alleged victim without hearing your side of the incident. While no amount of violence in a relationship is acceptable, it is possible that the allegations made against you are incorrect or inaccurate. You will need to prepare diligently to provide correct facts or accurate context to the allegations to help a judge decide whether you are an ongoing threat to the safety of the Petitioner. You have the right and opportunity to request a hearing one time and defend yourself against allegations of abuse. A FAPA order can impact your right to custody of your children and your right to own firearms, The FAPA Order permanently remains in the public records and can be reviewed by future employers. While a FAPA order was designed to protect victims there are incidents when a FAPA order may be misused. You only have a limited time in which you have the right to challenge the FAPA order and request to have dismissed or set aside. If the set amount of time passes, only the alleged victim can dismiss the Order. If a FAPA order limits your time with your children, the parenting time may be revisited during the term of the FAPA order, but continues limit when you can see or contact your children until it is challenged. If there are no other orders in place, it can act as temporary custody of your children. If you have questions about a FAPA order that has been issued again you, contact one of our lawyers to assist you in deciding whether to challenge the Order.

Contact Our Firm

If you have concerns regarding restraining orders or stalking orders, we encourage you to contact Gresham Family & Bankruptcy Law. We can be reached at 503-429-4229 or by completing the online contact form on this website. Our attorneys can meet outside of our standard 9 to 5 office hours based on the individual needs of our clients.