Domestic violence is a crime that affects millions of families in the United States each year. Since this crime is so serious, charges of domestic violence are taken seriously in the court system and can have a significant impact on family law proceedings. If you are a victim of domestic violence, contact law enforcement immediately. Police can help you file a report against your abuser and take the appropriate steps to get out of harm's way. Once a police report has been filed, law enforcement will serve the papers to your abuser and request their presence in court. You will have a temporary restraining order during this time.

What should I bring to my hearing?

At the domestic violence hearing, the judge will determine whether there is enough evidence to enact a protective order to the benefit of the victim. This will prevent the abuser from contacting you or coming within a certain distance of your school, work, or place of employment. If children are involve, the judge may remove custody of the children from the abusing parent and restrict the types of visitations that are allowed.

When you go to court, you should prepare some evidence to show that you are in danger from the actions of this person, including:

• Photographs of any injuries
• Medical records
• Concrete details of instances, including date, time, and place of incidents
• Financial needs and available resources

This hearing, while not a trial, should be approached as one. Your abuser may arrive with their own evidence denying your claims, and may have hired an attorney for their defense.

Knowing what to expect in a domestic violence hearing can help you prepare and get the legal help you deserve. If you would like to retain the help of an attorney to help ensure that you and your family are taken care of throughout the hearing, check out the directory of family law attorneys to find one in your area!