Locust Domestic Violence Attorney

If you have been the victim of domestic violence, it’s important to know that you are not alone. There are legal options available that can get you to safety away from your abuser. A Locust, NC domestic violence lawyer can aid you with whatever course you choose. From paperwork to final filing, they can be crucial in your case. Having the support of a family attorney in Locust is also valuable, as these cases often overlap with broader family law issues like custody and protective orders.

We Can Help

We at Lehnhardt Price Family Law are here to help. Our team has been working with the people of Locust and Southwestern North Carolina for decades in similarly difficult situations. Our team has the knowledge and experience to make a positive difference in your domestic violence case.

Locust Domestic Violence Resources

Domestic violence is, sadly, a common occurrence. It is estimated that around 10 million people experience domestic violence every year in the United States. Data shows that one in four women and one in nine men will be victims of domestic violence in their lifetimes. It’s valuable to know what steps you can take when being abused in Locust.

If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. Your safety comes before anything else. If not immediate, call the National Domestic Hotline. You can also contact a local shelter, such as the Cabarrus Victims Assistance Network or the 24-hour service, Safe Alliance.

North Carolina Protective Orders

After your safety is secured, the next step you can take is filing a protective order. Protective orders, also known as restraining orders, are legal tools that can be used to protect yourself from an abuser. Protective orders don’t only cover romantic partners; they can protect against a parent, a roommate, a child, an ex-partner, or others. Domestic violence can happen to anybody in a close relationship.

In North Carolina, there are two main types of protective orders. The first is an Ex parte or temporary protective order (TPO). TPOs can be issued instantly during emergencies and expire at the court hearing, which would occur within 10 days of the protective order being issued. For a TPO, the alleged abuser is not required to be notified of this process.

The second, longer-lasting type of protective order is a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO). These will usually occur after a TPO has expired on the day of hearing. Before the hearing, the defendant must be notified and have the opportunity to be present. Each party will present their arguments, and the judge will make a decision whether to grant a DVPO for a period up to one year.

Additional orders may be granted with a DVPO, such as temporary child custody changes, possession of a residence, or firearm restrictions.

Matter Types We Handle

At Lehnhardt Price Family Law, we provide comprehensive legal services across all areas of family law. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through life’s most important legal matters with compassion, expertise, and personalized attention.

Our Practice Areas

Family Law: Our comprehensive family law practice encompasses all aspects of domestic relations, from pre-marital agreements to complex family disputes. We provide sensitive, strategic legal guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.

Divorce: We provide skilled representation throughout the divorce process, whether uncontested or complex litigation. Our attorneys work to protect your interests while seeking efficient resolutions that minimize stress for you and your family.

Child Support: We handle all aspects of child support matters, including initial determinations, modifications, and enforcement actions. Our goal is to establish fair and sustainable arrangements for all parties involved.

Child Custody: We represent parents in custody determinations, visitation schedules, and parenting plan development. Our attorneys work to serve your children’s best interests while protecting your parental rights.

Spousal Support: We assist clients with alimony determinations, modifications, and enforcement. Our attorneys work to ensure fair spousal support arrangements that reflect each party’s financial circumstances and needs.

Adoption: We guide families through the adoption process, handling all legal requirements and paperwork. Our compassionate approach helps make this joyful journey as smooth as possible for everyone involved.

Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence is a hard case to try to face alone. Hire a domestic violence lawyer who can provide guidance and valuable insight into the process. Your Locust domestic violence attorney can file a TPO for you and can help fight for you during a DVPO hearing.

DVPOs rely on evidence of alleged abuse. Your domestic violence lawyer can argue your case and aid in deciding what to include. If the defendant has legal representation, having your professional guidance can make a major difference.

After a DVPO hearing, there are other potential legal cases that a family lawyer can assist with. Divorce, child custody, and spousal support are all additional potential litigations that may require assistance.

False Accusations

Accusations of domestic violence are often truthful, but there are times when someone may be wrongfully accused. A false domestic violence accusation can result in stalking charges, assault charges, and the loss of custody of your children. Your Locust domestic violence lawyer can aid in the DVPO hearing, presenting a strong defense against any untrue statements.

FAQs About Locust Domestic Violence Law

How Much Is a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Locust?

The cost of a Locust domestic violence lawyer can vary based on a multitude of factors. The complexity of the case, working hours required, and unforeseen expenses can all contribute. Speak with a domestic violence lawyer to get an estimate for the total cost of their legal services.

Is There a New Law for Domestic Violence in NC?

There are several laws regarding domestic violence currently being considered by both North Carolina’s State Senate and State House of Representatives. The first is House Bill 230, which would establish a felony for repeat domestic violence. The second legislation being considered is House Bill 515, which would establish various types of economic abuse—like restricting access to shared funds—as a form of domestic violence. House Bill 515 has passed and is awaiting a State Senate vote.

Can You File a DVPO Without Being Physically Harmed?

You can file a DVPO without being physically harmed. North Carolina’s Chapter 50B allows for a protective order to be filed without evidence of physical assault. Emotional distress, stalking, or fear of imminent physical harm are all valid reasons for why a TPO or DVPO may be issued. Your domestic violence attorney will know which details can be used to successfully get a protective order issued.

What if a Protective Order Is Violated in Locust, North Carolina?

If a protective order is violated in Locust, North Carolina, it is a criminal offense. If it’s the first offense, then it will most likely be classified as an A1 misdemeanor. If it occurs multiple times or the abuser is armed, it can be escalated to a Class H felony. In any scenario, if someone you have filed a protective order against violates the order, call 9-1-1 right away. The police can arrest your abuser with no warrant.

Contact a Domestic Violence Lawyer Today

Domestic violence cases are difficult, but you don’t have to fight them on your own. Lehnhardt Price Family Law is ready to defend you, either from an abuser or false allegations. We have helped others in similar times and can bring that experience to your case.

We want to learn your story. Contact us today for an initial consultation, or schedule an appointment at our Monroe Office—located on Lancaster Avenue across the street from Gateway Park.

Serving Locust and the Greater Stanly County Area

When you’re facing challenging family law matters in Locust or throughout the surrounding Stanly County region, you need attorneys who understand both the complexities of North Carolina family law and the close-knit nature of our local communities. At Lehnhardt Price Family Law, we recognize that family legal issues – whether divorce, child custody, or support matters – require not just legal expertise but also sensitivity to the personal relationships and community connections that matter most in smaller towns.

Located conveniently to serve Locust and the greater Charlotte metropolitan area, our dedicated family law practice brings Board-Certified expertise and proven courtroom experience to clients throughout Stanly County and beyond. Managing Partner Dana B. Lehnhardt’s certification as a Family Law Specialist, combined with Partner Jessica E. Price’s decade of legal experience and personal understanding of parenting challenges, ensures you receive both technical excellence and compassionate guidance during difficult times.

Whether you’re dealing with a contested divorce involving local business assets, navigating child custody arrangements that must work within Locust’s school systems and community activities, or addressing support issues that affect your family’s future in this growing area, partnering with experienced Locust family law attorneys who understand both North Carolina law and the unique dynamics of Stanly County communities can be essential to achieving outcomes that truly serve your family’s best interests.