Blog

Do I have grounds for a restraining order in NJ?

Newark NJ Restraining Order AttorneysMany potential clients contact the Tormey Law Firm LLC asking if they have grounds to file a restraining order in New Jersey. Here are the basics:

To obtain a temporary restraining order (TRO) in NJ, you must show the following:

  1. That a predicate act of domestic violence has occurred: This can be assault, harassment, stalking, terroristic threats, etc. You can allege multiple acts of domestic violence, but you must be able to show at least one of the enumerated predicate acts of domestic violence in order to obtain a temporary restraining order.
  2. A prior history of domestic violence: Most restraining order cases also require a showing of a prior history of domestic violence over and above the predicate act of domestic violence (as discussed above). In certain cases, if the predicate act of domestic violence is particularly egregious, then no showing of a prior history of domestic violence will be necessary to obtain a restraining order.
  3. The victim needs the restraining order to protect them: You must be able to show the judge that you need the restraining order to protect your safety and well-being. This generally means showing that a reasonable person in your situation would be in fear of the defendant and would need the protection of the court system in order to feel safe.

If you can show all three of the above factors, then you have grounds to obtain a restraining order in New Jersey. However, you must also have standing to obtain a restraining order. Standing means that you are a protected party under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act. To have standing to be able to file a restraining order in NJ, one of the following must apply to you:

  • You and the defendant were in a dating relationship at some point.
  • You and the defendant resided together at some point.
  • You and the defendant have a child together.

If any of those scenarios apply to you, then you may have standing to apply for a temporary restraining order (TRO). You can do so by going to your local police department or to the Superior Court in the county in which you reside.

For more information, contact the Tormey Law Firm directly at 201-556-1570.

Newark NJ Police Investigate Domestic Violence Incident, Look for Suspect Accused of Robbing Victims
Newark NJ Police Get Call about Shooting Victim Being Treated at Hospital
Client Reviews
testimonials reviews
  • "Travis Tormey is the only lawyer I seek out to handle my legal affairs. Over the last four years, I have used Mr. Tormey’s services on numerous occasions to my great benefit. He promptly returns my messages, takes the time..."

  • "Travis Tormey is a superb attorney. He is skilled and knowledgeable. He handled my case with respect, kindness and quiet assurance. I would trust him with all future legal needs. He has many contacts in the legal profession..."

  • "Mr. Tormey is a consummate professional. Our case was sensitive and complicated and unusually lengthy for a juvenile case. For 8 months Mr. Tormey faithfully worked our case and never failed to show for court once. Punctual, disciplined..."

  • "Travis Tormey is an outstanding attorney. He helped me tremendously, more so than I ever could have imagined. He handled all aspects of my case with compassion, respect, and immense competence. He is a skilled and knowledge..."

  • "I was extremely nervous and anticipating the worst situation possible for my cases. Travis was a very reliable lawyer and everyone at his firm was extremely helpful. Travis went above and beyond inside and outside of the court room for me! ..."

Our Offices

Hackensack Law Office

254 State Street Hackensack, NJ 07601

Get Directions Hackensack Law Office

Newark Law Office

1 Gateway Center, Suite 2600 Newark, NJ 07102

Get Directions Newark Law Office