Domestic Violence: What to Do if You've Been Served with an Injunction

If you have received a Petition or Injunction for Protection Against Domestic Violence, make sure to follow every part of the order. Injunctions commonly come with provisions like:

• You can't own a firearm. If you currently own one, you'll have to temporarily turn it into a police station or sell it off.

• You can't go within a certain distance of your spouse, children, and other enumerated parties. You probably have been told not to contact them, either. Resist the temptation to ask your spouse what happened. This may be taken as a threat.

• You must not interact with your spouse's finances. If possible, you should avoid any joint accounts you possess, as well.

Making sure to follow the injunction is the first step. The second step is to file an "Answer," or a legal document telling your side of the story. You and your lawyer will prepare this together, citing evidence in your favor. Your goal from here on is to get the injunction dismissed and clear your name.