Category Archives: Restraining Order

How Do CA Gun Violence Restraining Orders Work?
Domestic Violence, Restraining Order, Restraining Order

How Do CA Gun Violence Restraining Orders Work?

California is known for strict gun laws to protect its citizens from crime and domestic violence. The state legislature first approved Gun Restraining Orders in 2016. How do CA Gun Violence Restraining Orders work, and when do you need one? CA Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger discusses CA Gun Restraining Orders and how they work.

What Is a Gun Violence Restraining Order?

A Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO) is a court order that prevents someone from accessing firearms and ammunition. It’s also known as a “red flag law.”  

“The GVRO provides an opportunity to remove guns from individuals who would not otherwise be prohibited from possessing firearms.” This legally binding order reduces the risk of gun-related violence for between one to five years, allowing the person in crisis to get help.

The judge may issue a temporary Gun Violence Restraining Order before the scheduled hearing and grant other restraining orders as necessary. A temporary GVRO lasts for 21 days. If the judge grants a 1-5-year GVRO, a law enforcement officer will serve the papers to the person and collect any firearms, ammunition, and magazines. The subject of a GVRO cannot legally purchase any guns, magazines, or ammunition while the order is in force. The court may extend a GVRO.

A GVRO requires the subject of the order to relinquish all firearms and ammunition and prohibits the subject from purchasing any guns or ammunition while the order is in effect.

When Would I Need a GVRO?

When should you consider petitioning the court for a gun violence restraining order? Under California Penal Code Section 18150, a Gun Violence Restraining Order can prohibit an individual who poses a significant danger of self-injury or injuring another from owning, possessing, purchasing, receiving, or attempting to purchase or receive a firearm or ammunition.

Threats or acts of domestic violence are common reasons to ask for a GVRO. The United States Department of Justice defines domestic violence as: “Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.”

The California Family Code defines domestic violence as abuse perpetrated against an “intimate partner” or family member. This can include spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, individuals in dating relationships, parents, and children. While physical violence often comes to mind first, domestic violence also encompasses emotional and psychological abuse, including threats of harm.

In the context of domestic violence, a threat can be considered abusive if it instills fear, apprehension, or intimidation in the victim. Even if the threatened harm does not materialize, the impact on the victim’s emotional well-being is considered.

How Do I Obtain a GVRO in California?

The following people can request a Gun Violence Restraining Order against an individual:

  • An immediate family member
  • An employer
  • A coworker, if they have had substantial and regular interactions with the subject for at least one year and have obtained the employer’s approval
  • An employee or teacher of a secondary or postsecondary school that the subject has attended in the last six months, if the employee or teacher has obtained the approval of a school administrator or a school administration staff member with a supervisorial role
  • A law enforcement officer
  • A roommate
  • An individual who has a dating relationship with the subject
  • An individual who has a child in common with the subject, if they have had substantial and regular interactions with the subject for at least one year

You can ask a law enforcement officer to ask for a gun violence restraining order. If it is an emergency, you can call police and ask for one right away. If you do not want to call police for help, Family Law Attorney Judy Burger can help you petition the court and handle the details.

Get Help with Gun Restraining Orders in California

You do not have to remain in threatening, abusive, or dangerous relationships. CA Certified Family Law Specialist Judy Burger can help you when you need legal protection or seek to protect someone close to you from committing harm or harming themselves. We have eight offices across California to serve you. Schedule a consultation to get answers to your questions about Gun Violence Restraining Orders and other types of restraining orders. We can offer counsel, help you file petitions with the court, and get the help you need now.  

Is Domestic Violence On the Rise in California?
California Divorce, Child Custody, Domestic Violence, Marriage, Restraining Order, Restraining Order, Termination of Parental Rights

Is Domestic Violence On the Rise in California?

As conversations surrounding domestic violence increase, residents need to understand the current state of this serious issue in California. Domestic violence, which encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological abuse, has far-reaching consequences for individuals and communities. CA Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger explores this topic so you can better understand the challenges we face in combating domestic violence in the Golden State.

Startling Facts On Domestic Violence

The following facts are based on the 2023 California Violence Experiences Survey (CalVEX):

  • More than half of California women experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime.
  • One in 30 women – more than 460,000 in California – experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a partner in just the past year, and those reporting these abuses in the past year faced greater health and social risks.
  • 9% of women and 31.1% of menin California experience intimate partner violence or stalking in their lifetime. 
  • In 2021, California reported over 1,300 human trafficking cases, the most reported cases of human trafficking in the United States.

“Women who experienced intimate partner violence in the past year are more likely to be contending with depression, anxiety, and suicidality, and they are also more likely to have faced recent eviction,” said Jakana Thomas, a professor of political science at the School of Global Policy and Strategy.

A 2024 report, “The Costs of Intimate Partner Violence in California,” reveals a cost of $73.7 billion to the state in health care, lost productivity and income, and criminal justice and response program spending for domestic violence cases in 2022 alone. This is about 2% of the gross domestic product for California. 

Factors Contributing to the Rise

Domestic violence is a complex issue influenced by various social, economic, and psychological factors. Some of the reasons contributing to its rise may include:

  1. Economic Stress: Economic challenges, such as unemployment or financial insecurity, can increase tensions within households, leading to conflicts that may escalate into violence.
  2. Increased Substance Abuse: Stressful situations can lead to increased alcohol or drug use, which may contribute to aggressive behavior and exacerbate existing tensions in relationships.
  3. Social Norms and Attitudes: Societal acceptance of violence as a means of conflict resolution can perpetuate cycles of abuse. Cultural attitudes towards gender roles and power dynamics in relationships can also impact the prevalence of domestic violence.
  4. Lack of Education and Resources: A lack of education about healthy relationships and available resources can keep victims stuck in abusive situations. Many may not know how to seek help or where to turn.
  5. Historical and Ongoing Trauma: Individuals who have experienced violence in their own families or communities may be more likely to either perpetrate or experience domestic violence themselves, perpetuating cycles of abuse.

Domestic Violence and the Law

The United States Department of Justice defines domestic violence as: “Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.”

California law specifies that domestic violence encompasses any type of abuse inflicted upon an “intimate partner,” which is broadly defined to include almost a dozen different relationships. This includes the deliberate or careless application of physical force against the individual or the act of threatening to use force against them.

The Importance of Taking Action

The issue of domestic violence is critical. Do not wonder how long you must suffer – when you or your child experience abuse or feel threatened, that is the time to act. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Contact The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger for immediate assistance with obtaining a restraining order. Together, we can work towards breaking the cycle of violence and creating a safer future for everyone.

 

What Are Sufficient Grounds for an Elder Abuse Restraining Order?
Restraining Order

What Are Sufficient Grounds for an Elder Abuse Restraining Order?

Elder abuse is a serious issue that affects many older adults across California. To protect vulnerable individuals aged 65 and older, the state provides legal avenues such as restraining orders to prevent further harm. Understanding what constitutes sufficient grounds for an elder abuse restraining order is crucial for both victims and their families.

California Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger explores the various forms of elder abuse and the legal criteria necessary for obtaining a restraining order in California.

What Constitutes Elder Abuse?

The Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Protection Act (EADACPA) defines abuse of an elder or a dependent adult as “either (a) physical abuse, neglect, financial abuse, abandonment, isolation, abduction, or other treatment with resulting physical harm or pain or mental suffering, or (b) the deprivation by a care custodian of goods or services that are necessary to avoid physical harm or mental suffering.”

  1. Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical pain or injury, such as hitting, slapping, or inappropriate restraint.
  2. Emotional Abuse: Causing mental suffering through verbal assaults, threats, or intimidation.
  3. Financial Abuse: Illegally taking, withholding, or misusing an elder’s funds or property. This may include fraud, scams, or coercion.
  4. Neglect: Failing to provide essential care that results in harm to the elderly, such as inadequate food, shelter, or medical care.
  5. Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact or exploitation.
  6. Abandonment: Leaving an elder without necessary care or assistance.

Family Law Attorney Judy Burger can explain more and help you determine if you have a case to petition the court for a domestic violence/elder abuse restraining order to protect someone you love.

Grounds for Obtaining an Elder Abuse Restraining Order

In California, the elder abuse restraining order is designed to provide immediate protection for older adults experiencing abuse. To obtain this type of restraining order, the following conditions must typically be met:

Proven Abuse or Threat

The petitioner must demonstrate that they have experienced or are at risk of experiencing abuse. This can be evidenced through:

  • Medical reports documenting injuries
  • Photographs of physical harm
  • Witness testimonies
  • Documentation of financial exploitation

However, the CA Welfare & Institutions Code section 15657.03 allows the court to restrain any person to prevent a recurrence of abuse if a declaration shows reasonable proof of a past act or abuse of the petitioning elder or dependent adult. This means the court may grant an elder abuse restraining order on a preponderance of the evidence. Additionally, the court in Gdowski v. Gdowski (2009) 175 Cal.App.4th 128 held that a protective order under EADACPA may be issued based on evidence of past abuse without any particularized showing that wrongful acts will continue or be repeated.  

Relationship with the Abuser

The abuser must have a specific relationship with the victim, such as a family member, caregiver, or someone with whom the elder has a close relationship. It’s important to establish that the person posing the threat has direct access to the elder.

Immediate Danger

The elder or a loved one must show that they are in immediate danger of harm or that harassment and abuse are likely to continue without court intervention. This may include verbal threats, stalking behavior, or prior incidents of abuse.

Request for Supportive Evidence

While a detailed record of incidents is vital, the court will also look for any patterns of abusive behavior over time. This can include the frequency of past incidents, the level of intimidation experienced, and the emotional impact the abuse has had on the elder’s mental health.

Protect Your Loved Ones from Elder Abuse

Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially for vulnerable seniors. If you or a loved one is dealing with elder abuse, it’s vital to seek legal assistance. CA Family law Attorney Judy Burger can guide you through the process of obtaining an elder abuse restraining order, ensure that you have the necessary documentation, and represent your interests in court.

Elder abuse is a grave concern, and understanding the grounds for obtaining a restraining order can be a vital step toward ensuring safety and protection. If you suspect that an elder is being mistreated, take action to help safeguard their well-being. No one should endure abuse, and the law provides resources to defend those who cannot defend themselves. For personalized advice and assistance, reach out to The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger. We have eight convenient locations across California to serve you.

 

When Does a Threat Become Domestic Violence?
Domestic Violence, Restraining Order

When Does a Threat Become Domestic Violence?

“What is a threat?” “Can a threat be considered domestic violence, or is freedom of speech a factor?” “How do I know if I’m being threatened?” These are common questions family law attorneys get asked by clients in troublesome relationships. 

Understanding the threshold at which a threat becomes domestic violence is crucial for recognizing and addressing abusive behavior in relationships. In California, domestic violence encompasses a range of abusive actions, including threats that create a climate of fear and intimidation. It’s important to be informed about when a threat crosses the line into domestic violence and the legal protections available to those affected.

Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger addresses threats and how they relate to charges of domestic violence in California.  

What Is Domestic Violence?

The United States Department of Justice defines domestic violence as: “Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.”

The California Family Code defines domestic violence as abuse perpetrated against an “intimate partner” or family member. This can include spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, individuals in dating relationships, parents, and children. While physical violence often comes to mind first, domestic violence also encompasses emotional and psychological abuse, including threats of harm.

  1. Direct threats: “I’ll kill you…”
  2. Indirect threats: “You’ll be sorry…”
  3. Implied threats: “What if something happened to you…”

In the context of domestic violence, a threat can be considered abusive if it instills fear, apprehension, or intimidation in the victim. Even if the threatened harm does not materialize, the impact on the victim’s emotional well-being is considered.

Legal Domestic Violence Protections

California law offers legal remedies to address domestic violence threats. One important avenue is obtaining a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO). A DVRO is a court order that provides protection to victims of domestic violence by prohibiting the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim. It can also include other provisions, such as ordering the abuser to move out of the shared residence and to stay away from certain locations, including the victim’s workplace or children’s school.

Our office can also help you when gun violence restraining orders are necessary. Contact one of our eight California offices to learn more.

Get Help with Domestic Violence Crimes In California

When it comes to threats and domestic violence, it’s essential to take any indication of harm or intimidation seriously. If you are in immediate danger, it’s important to contact law enforcement. You should never hesitate to act when you believe you or your child are victims of domestic violence.

When you or your child experience abuse or feel threatened, that is the time to act. Contact The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger for immediate assistance with obtaining a restraining order.

Recognizing when a threat crosses the line into domestic violence is a critical step in addressing and preventing abusive behavior within relationships. Certified Family Law Specialist Judy Burger can help you be informed about legal definitions and available remedies so you can proactively protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of domestic violence threats. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, get help now.

You can also get immediate assistance by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Family Lawyer or Certified Family Law Specialist?
California Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Domestic Violence, Legal Separation, Property Division, Restraining Order, Spousal Support, Termination of Parental Rights, Termination of Parental Rights, Visitation

Family Lawyer or Certified Family Law Specialist?

When family law matters occur, you need a family lawyer, right? But what about complex situations? A Certified Family Law Specialist is just that – a certified specialist who handles complicated and difficult family law cases. When you have a heart problem, you don’t want a general practitioner; you want a heart specialist. Similarly, when your family has serious problems, turn to a CA Certified Family Law Specialist like Judy L. Burger.

What Is a Certified Family Law Specialist?

A Certified Family Law Specialist is an attorney who has been certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization as having expertise in the area of family law. This certification is only awarded to attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of experience, proficiency, and commitment to family law through a rigorous process that includes examination and peer review. Certified Family Law Specialists are recognized for their specialized knowledge and proficiency in handling complex family law matters, including divorce, child custody, spousal support, complex property divisions, and other related issues.

A Certified Specialist Has Extensive Experience in Complex Cases

Certified Family Law Specialists are required to maintain their expertise by handling complex family law cases in order to expand their knowledge and experience. To maintain their certification, they must undergo recertification every five years, which involves completing additional continuing education and applying their extensive knowledge to assist California families.

A CFLS will have considerable experience with:

  • Divisive legal separations after a long marriage
  • Difficult divorces where the parties cannot agree on anything
  • Military divorces where both parties are actively serving
  • Complex business valuations where both spouses are owners
  • Sophisticated property divisions involving retirement and other investments
  • Heated mediations over support agreements
  • Emotionally charged situations involving different family backgrounds
  • Intense negotiations involving children and custody
  • Heart-wrenching discussions over grandparents’ rights
  • Litigating difficult child custody and support cases
  • Ex parte “emergency” hearings to stop or prevent abuse
  • Domestic violence assistance for spouses and children
  • Complex paternity issues for fathers
  • Completing and filing voluminous paperwork
  • More…

Experienced and highly knowledgeable in family law, Judy Burger, a Certified Family Law Specialist, brings a wealth of expertise and legal acumen to the table. Her extensive education, years of practical experience, and specialized certification make her an ideal choice for obtaining the results you seek in your family law matters.

A Family Law Generalist May Not Be Enough

Difficult family law matters are often mentally and emotionally challenging. The possible complexities and problems are legion and no two cases are alike. A general family law attorney may know the law, but highly charged issues with layers of complexity can be beyond their level of expertise. Realizing your lawyer is out of his or her depth in the middle of your divorce, child custody battle, or other personal matter is far too late. You could risk:

  • Losing custody
  • Limited visitation rights
  • Surrendering valuable assets
  • Burdensome support agreements
  • Your personal safety
  • Your family’s welfare
  • Your reputation
  • Your future

An experienced CFLS like Judy Burger encounters tough cases on a regular basis, so she has experience and resources a general family law attorney simply doesn’t have. If you anticipate a volatile situation in the making, now is the time to see a specialist for seasoned guidance, advice, and representation.

Don’t risk your safety, your family, or your future. Contact The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger, Certified CA Family Law Specialist, to schedule a consultation today. Our team is prepared to go above and beyond what a mere family lawyer can do for you!

 

Can a California Restraining Order Keep Me Safe?
Restraining Order, California Divorce, Child Custody, Domestic Violence, Legal Separation, Marriage, Mediation, Property Division, Restraining Order, Termination of Parental Rights

Can a California Restraining Order Keep Me Safe?

A California 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.” But can a restraining order keep you safe? Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger explains the basic provisions of California restraining orders and how they work.

Types of Restraining Orders

Restraining orders in California can include prohibitions or guidelines for:

  1. Personal Conduct
  2. Distance Exclusions (Stay-Away Orders)
  3. Moving Out (Residence Exclusion Orders)

These orders come in various types:

The subject of the restraining order has restrictions that govern their:

  • Movements
  • Freedoms
  • Living arrangements
  • Custody and visitation rights
  • Immigration and naturalization status or privileges

Restraining orders are designed to keep parties separate and govern the actions of one party to minimize or eliminate the risk of harassment, intimidation, and violence.

When Should I File for a Restraining Order?

Many California residents struggle with the question of when it is appropriate or necessary to file for a restraining order with the court. They ask, “How far is too far?” or “How much should I endure?” before a restraining order is warranted. However, if you are asking that question, it may already be time to seek legal protections.

If you ask, “How far is too far?” or “How much should I endure?” before a restraining order is warranted, it is likely time to seek legal protection.

Contact The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger for assistance with obtaining a California restraining order or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for immediate help.

If the restrained person violates the restraining order, they may be subject to imprisonment, a fine, or both.

Be Proactive About Your Safety

A legal protection order is a strong defense, but it is only one aspect of protection. You should be proactive about your own safety and the safety of your child(ren). Family Law Attorney Judy Burger can discuss specific provisions with you, but we recommend taking the following actions:

  • Being aware of your surroundings at all times
  • Keeping doors and windows locked at all times
  • Avoiding places or areas where the risk of confrontation is high
  • Do not share your residence information, plans, or whereabouts on social media or with anyone
  • Create an emergency plan in case you need to leave your home or another location
  • Use a third party for any necessary communications with the restraining order subject
  • Immediately report all violations of the restraining order’s provisions

Certified CA Family Law Specialist Judy Burger can walk with you through the difficult circumstances that prompt filing for a domestic violence restraining order in California and help you keep yourself and your children safe. Contact one of our eight offices across the state for more information.

Get Help Filing for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order

The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger can help you file a petition to the court for various restraining orders. The petition outlines the details of the threats or abuse prompting the order request and includes dates, locations, and all relevant facts. We will also help you collect evidence like videos, images, social media posts, damaged property, physical evidence on your body, medical reports, witness statements, and more. Our team will also help you determine the type of restraining order you need and what you need it to do. 

CA Gun Restraining Orders
Restraining Order, Domestic Violence, Restraining Order

CA Gun Restraining Orders

The Golden State has some of the toughest gun laws in the United States to protect its citizens from domestic violence and firearm crimes. CA Gun Restraining Orders were approved in 2016 by the state legislature so “family members, household members, some employers, colleagues, teachers, and law enforcement can take action to prevent a person who poses a significant risk of harming themselves or others from having or purchasing a gun, ammunition, or magazine for a specified length of time, between 21 days and five years.”

When would you need a Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO), and what protections does it provide? CA Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger discusses CA Gun Restraining Orders and how they work.

California Domestic Violence and Firearm Restrictions

California law prohibits anyone from buying or owning firearms for 10 years after a violent misdemeanor conviction, including stalking, assault, and battery, no matter the victim’s relationship to the offender. Newer legislation now provides a lifetime firearms ban on anyone convicted of willfully inflicting corporal injury resulting in a traumatic condition against a current or former spouse, cohabitant, or dating partner or against the mother or father of the offender’s child after January 1, 2019.

California law also prohibits anyone subject to several types of court orders from buying, receiving, owning, or attempting to buy a firearm or ammunition while the order is in force. This includes domestic violence restraining orders, civil harassment orders, workplace violence restraining orders, and more.

California also prohibits people who are subjects of domestic violence restraining orders from owning or possessing ammunition and certain ghost gun kits and firearm components.

How Do CA Gun Violence Restraining Orders Work?

“The GVRO provides an opportunity to remove guns from individuals who would not otherwise be prohibited from possessing firearms.” Those in a close relationship with a person facing a crisis and whom they fear is at significant risk of lethal behavior (to themselves or others) may petition the court for a GVRO. This legally binding order reduces the risk of gun-related violence for between one to five years, allowing the person in crisis to get help.

The judge may issue a temporary Gun Violence Restraining Order before the scheduled hearing and may also grant other restraining orders as deemed necessary. A temporary GVRO is good for 21 days. If the judge grants a 1-5-year GVRO, a law enforcement officer will serve the papers to the person and collect any firearms, ammunition, and magazines. The subject of a GVRO cannot legally purchase any firearms, magazines, or ammunition while the order is in force. A GVRO may be extended by the court.

What a GVRO Does

A GVRO requires that all firearms and ammunition be relinquished by the subject of the order and prohibits the subject of the order from purchasing any guns or ammunition while the order is in effect.

What a GVRO Does Not Do

A GVRO does not affect knives or other non-firearm-type weapons. It does not include an order of protection for anyone. Additional protective orders may be granted by the court if needed.

Get Help with Gun Restraining Orders in California

Relationships can become complicated, and the risks of violence can escalate quickly. CA Certified Family Law Specialist Judy Burger can help you when you need legal protection or seek to protect someone close to you from committing harm or harming themselves. Contact one of our eight offices across California to schedule a consultation. We can answer your questions about Gun Violence Restraining Orders and other types of restraining orders, offer advice, help you file petitions with the court, and get the help you need now.

 

CA Domestic Violence Restraining Orders 101
Restraining Order, Domestic Violence, Restraining Order

CA Domestic Violence Restraining Orders 101

A domestic violence restraining order  is issued by courts to protect people from threatened or actual abuse from others with whom they have a relationship. California law allows granting protective orders for physical, psychological, and emotional abuse. California Family Law Attorney Judy L. Burger can help you understand more about restraining orders and when you need to petition the court for one.

Here is some basic information about domestic violence restraining orders that you should know.

You can also get immediate assistance by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Who Can Request a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in California?

Anyone age 12 and older can request a domestic violence restraining order if they have a close relationship with the person who has threatened abuse or actually committed abusive acts. California law defines a close relationship as including individuals who are:

  • Dating
  • Used to date
  • Currently or previously living together in a relationship (not roommates)
  • Married
  • Separated
  • Divorced
  • Co-parenting a child
  • Blood relatives (parent, grandparent, sibling, etc.)
  • In-laws

You may also need an ex parte, or emergency, restraining order. Attorney Judy Burger can explain more about this temporary measure. Call us now for assistance.

How Can a Domestic Violence Restraining Order Help Me?

Why should you file for a domestic violence restraining order against someone? This legal court order provides a layer of protection from harm. The court may enact the following measures against someone:

  • Stop abusive actions
  • Stay away from you (including anyplace you frequent, like home, work, or school)
  • Have no contact with you (including phone, text, mail, email, deliveries, third persons, etc.)
  • Provide support (child support, payments on jointly-owned property, etc.)
  • Grant exclusive use (like a home or car jointly-owned with the abuser)
  • Pay restitution (such as for property damage or medical expenses caused by abusive actions)
  • Relinquish firearms in their possession
  • Attend a treatment program
  • Undergo regular drug tests

The courts may also issue orders relating to child custody, support, and visitation in consideration of the child’s safety and welfare. They may order the abuser to stay away from places the child may frequent, such as schools, daycare, doctors, after-school activities, and more.

Tips for Filing a Restraining Order

Attorney Judy Burger can walk you through the process of filing for a domestic violence restraining order in California. This is often helpful due to the anxiety and fear that often accompanies the circumstances making it necessary. Her experience and confident demeanor are an anchor to help you as you seek stability, relief, and direction during troublesome times.

As you consider what is needed for a restraining order, it is helpful to think of your petition as a blueprint for testifying at a trial. What should be included?

  1. The specifics of the abuse or threats you have experienced. Be as detailed as possible, including dates, times, locations, and other pertinent facts. Think of it as a log of your abusive experience.
  2. Consider the type of help you need. What do you need the order to accomplish? Stop the abuse, prohibit contact, protect your children, provide support or other measures.
  3. Collect evidence to accompany the order petition. Screenshot emails, texts, and social media posts. Photograph damaged items and physical trauma from the abuse. Photograph destroyed property, clothing, personal items like a damaged phone, and other evidence.
  4. Collect witness statements. Record their testimony in writing or digitally.

The more specifics you can provide, the stronger your petition for a restraining order. Overwhelming evidence can also motivate the court to enact stronger protections. Think through the above factors and be ready to discuss everything with Attorney Judy Burger in a confidential consultation. She can also provide further guidance and advice on your next steps.

Get Help from a Certified Family Law Specialist

Judy L. Burger is certified by the California State Bar, Board of Legal Specialization as a Certified Family Law Specialist. She is your strong and aggressive advocate in highly conflicted domestic matters when you need the law on your side. Her encyclopedic knowledge of CA law and astute representation offers the protection and guidance you need in domestic violence cases. The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger has locations throughout Northern, Central, and Southern California for your convenience. Get the help you need to stop the abuse and get on with your life. Call us today.

 

Can a Restraining Order in California Prevent Me From Getting a Job?
Restraining Order, Domestic Violence, Restraining Order

Can a Restraining Order in California Prevent Me From Getting a Job?

A restraining order is a legal order that prohibits a person from contacting or coming close to another person. In California, restraining orders can be obtained by individuals who have experienced domestic violence, harassment, stalking, or other forms of abuse. While a restraining order can provide much-needed protection, it can also have significant consequences.

Can a restraining order in California prevent me from getting a job? Certified Family Law Specialist Judy L. Burger addresses this important question.

Restraining Orders and Employment Background Checks

Under the California Fair Chance Act of 2018 (recently modified), employers are prohibited from inquiring about criminal history information or disseminating it in any form or manner before making a conditional job offer, including through background checks, internet searches, or other means.

However, the California Fair Chance Act Overview FAQ states:

“After offering you a job, employers are allowed to conduct a criminal history check, but the law requires an individualized assessment about your conviction history. That means that an employer can’t take back the job offer without considering the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job you are seeking. If the employer decides to take back the job offer based on your criminal history, they must tell you so in writing, provide a copy of any conviction history report they relied on, and give you at least five business days to respond.”

When an employer conducts a background check and discovers that you have a restraining order against you, it can impact your ability to get a job. Potential employers may view these orders as a red flag, indicating that you may have a history of violence or harassment. As a result, the employer may choose not to hire you, even if you are otherwise qualified for the job.

It is worth noting that under California law, employers cannot discriminate against employees or job applicants based on their status as victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. This means that an employer cannot refuse to hire you simply because you have an order of protection against someone else.

Types of Restraining Orders

In California, there are four types of restraining orders that a person can obtain:

  1. Domestic Violence 
  2. Civil Harassment 
  3. Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse 
  4. Workplace Violence 

Of these types of restraining orders, only a workplace violence restraining order is specifically related to employment. An employer obtains a workplace violence restraining order against an employee or former employee who has threatened violence or caused harm in the workplace. If an employer obtains a workplace violence restraining order against an employee, it can seriously impact the employee’s ability to find employment in the future.

What to Do If You Have a Restraining Order

If you have a restraining order against you in California, it is important to understand how it can impact your ability to get a job. While a restraining order may not prevent you from being hired in all cases, it can be a factor employers consider when hiring.

If you have a restraining order against you, it is important to be sure that a potential employer is following the law when considering you for employment. Be upfront with potential employers about your situation and seek legal advice if you believe you are unfairly discriminated against during the application or hiring process.

CA Family Law Attorney Judy L. Burger can explain more about restraining orders, how they work, what to do if you need one or have one, how to have one modified or removed, and more in a confidential consultation. Contact our office at one of the eight locations nearest you.

 

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Restraining Order

How to Dissolve a Restraining Order in California

Often, a person may be involved in legal proceedings that can be both time-consuming and stressful. One such proceeding is getting a restraining order against someone or being served with one. While restraining orders provide legal protections for those in harm’s way, sometimes those orders may be placed against individuals who do not deserve them. In situations like these, knowing the proper steps to take to dissolve the restraining order can be challenging. This blog post will discuss dissolving a restraining order in California.

 

What is a Restraining Order in California, and How Can it be Dissolved?

 

In California, a restraining order is a legal document that prohibits an individual (the restrained party) from having any contact with another individual (the protected party) for a specified time. Restraining orders exist to provide legal protection for victims of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. To dissolve a restraining order, you will need to consider the options that are available to you.

 

The Types of Dispositions Available for Dissolving a Restraining Order

 

There are two types of dispositions available for dissolving a restraining order. The first is a dismissal, where the protected party requests to lift the restraining order. The second is a motion to modify or dissolve, where the restrained party requests to lift the order. To succeed with either option, it is best to hire a California restraining order attorney to guide you through the process.

 

How to File an Application to Dissolve a Restraining Order

 

When dissolving a restraining order, the process may seem daunting at first. However, it is essential to know that it is possible to dissolve the order by filing an application with the court. This application must include the reasons why the restraining order should be dissolved. Once the court receives the application, it will decide based on the evidence presented.

 

How the Court Decides Whether or Not to Grant a Motion to Dismiss a Restraining Order

 

The court will consider several factors when granting a motion to dismiss a restraining order. Firstly, they will consider why the restraining order was granted in the first place. They will also consider any evidence that supports the request to modify or dissolve the order. If the evidence presented is convincing enough, the court may grant the motion to dismiss the restraining order.

 

Common Mistakes That People Make When Trying to Dissolve a Restraining Order in California

 

Due to the sensitive nature of restraining orders, it is essential to handle them with care. Unfortunately, some people may make common mistakes when dissolving a restraining order. Some of these mistakes include failing to gather enough evidence to support the request to dissolve the order or demonstrating to the court that they pose no threat to the protected party.



When dissolving a restraining order in California, it is best to hire an attorney with experience handling these cases. At the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger, we are committed to providing our clients with the legal protections they need. We understand the stress and anxiety that comes with legal proceedings, which is why we work hard to make the process as stress-free as possible for our clients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.