This post is the last in our series discussing how Temporary Protective Orders (TPOs) may impact family law matters in Little Rock, Arkansas. This is an important topic because many people facing threats or harassment, or who may be accused of threatening or harassing others, are not sure how to proceed. Because of the potential impact on family law matters, specifically those related to child custody issues, our goal in this series has been to explain the TPO process to individuals pursuing or facing a Protective Order and to provide guidance for selecting a family law attorney. If you or a family member are in need of assistance with a TPO, please contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
This series of articles focused on several important topics, including:
- When the Court may grant a TPO
- The process of filing for a Temporary Protective Order
- Dealing with a TPO which is based on false allegations
- How to conduct oneself when a TPO is in place
- Challenging a TPO which has already been issued
There are several reasons we have chosen to address these topics. First, it is important to understand the specific requirements for obtaining a TPO. A party must be able to demonstrate that he or she faces a legitimate threat or actual occurrence of stalking, harassment and/or violence. A TPO is not appropriate when the parties are simply “bickering” during a nasty break-up. Second, there are a number of steps in the filing process and information required by the Court, including supporting evidence of the activity. Third, dealing with false accusations is not uncommon. If not handled quickly and effectively, false accusations could seriously impact a Court’s child custody decisions. Knowing how to comply with a TPO after one has been issued can prevent further legal complications, including potential criminal charges. Finally, understanding the process to challenge a TPO can be essential to protecting your legal rights.
If you or a loved one are feeling threatened or harassed or have been accused of such behavior, contact our office today to speak with a Little Rock Temporary Protective Order lawyer. We take every case seriously and will help guide you through the process. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with an attorney. We also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff and throughout the rest of Arkansas.