San Antonio Restraining Order Defense Lawyer

Understanding Texas’ Restraining Order Laws

The law allows for the issuance of restraining orders, also known as orders of protection, requiring a person to cease specific behaviors. Restraining orders are most commonly associated with domestic violence, physical abuse, harassment, stalking, sexual assault, and similar crimes. If someone has had a restraining order issued with your name on it, consult with our experienced San Antonio criminal defense lawyer who understands our state's domestic violence laws thoroughly.

When you work with the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski, you receive the benefit of having a former prosecutor fighting for you – I know what to expect from the other side. With nearly ten years of experience in criminal defense law, I understand the inner workings of the criminal justice system.

The Dos and Don'ts of Restraining Orders

Although a restraining order is a serious issue, you have valuable rights worth protecting – the right to be properly notified, the right to a court hearing, and the right to be represented by a lawyer. You especially want to assemble any information that could indicate the petitioner has made false accusations.

If someone petitions for a restraining order against you, here are steps to take:

• Do obey any temporary restraining orders.
• Do gather physical evidence relating to any incidents discussed in the petition (e.g., clothing, photos, etc.).
• Do collect any documentation related to the incidents (e.g., emails, voicemails, computer files, etc.).
• Do create a list of potential witnesses and their contact information.

Equally important is knowing what behavior to avoid if you are confronted with a petition for a restraining order:

• Don't destroy evidence that you believe to be incriminating. This behavior automatically looks suspicious the court.
• Don't try to contact the petitioner or any witnesses, even via email or text messages.
• Don't disregard a temporary restraining order in any way, even if it limits your contact with your children or other family members.

Many times a person is completely caught off guard by a restraining order. The emotional turmoil that takes place can make it very difficult to know what to do next. Start with a case evaluation from a trusted San Antonio domestic violence attorney. Defeating the accusations against you will require solid evidence and convincing arguments from a legal professional who is committed to protecting your rights and interests.