If you are involved in a Family Court matter involving domestic violence, harassment, or threats, it is essential to have a skilled and experienced Brooklyn Order of Protection Attorney on your side. Whether you are seeking protection as a victim or defending yourself against serious allegations, Gilmer Law Firm, PLLC provides strong, strategic representation in New York Family Court.
Our office in Brooklyn, New York has helped hundreds of individuals navigate the emotional and legal complexities of family offense petitions and orders of protection. We understand that these cases can affect your safety, your children, and your future. That’s why we advocate aggressively for both petitioners and respondents in Family Court proceedings throughout Kings County and the five boroughs.
What Is a Family Offense Petition?
A Family Offense Petition is a civil filing under Article 8 of the Family Court Act that allows individuals to seek an Order of Protection against someone they are related to or have an intimate relationship with. The petition can allege:
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Assault or threats
- Sexual abuse
- Menacing
- Criminal mischief
- Coercive or controlling behavior
Although these cases are civil, violating an Order of Protection can lead to criminal charges, including arrest and jail time. That’s why it’s critical to hire a New York Order of Protection Attorney who understands the overlap between civil and criminal proceedings.
Who Can File a Family Offense Petition in Brooklyn Family Court?
Under FCA § 812, you may seek or be subject to an Order of Protection in Family Court if you are:
- Married to or divorced from the respondent
- In a current or former dating relationship
- The parent of a child in common
- A relative by blood or marriage
- A cohabitant or former cohabitant
Even if you’ve never lived with the person or been married, you may still qualify for protection. Likewise, if you’ve been served with an Order of Protection, your ability to see your children or enter your home may be affected. Our Brooklyn Family Offense Attorneys represent clients on both sides of these emotionally charged cases.
Understanding Orders of Protection in New York
An Order of Protection can:
- Require someone to stay away from you and your children
- Restrict communication via phone, email, or social media
- Order someone to move out of your home
- Award temporary custody or visitation terms
- Include financial restitution or support
- Allow the protected person to break a lease under RPL § 227-c
Whether you are the petitioner or respondent, a Brooklyn Order of Protection Attorney from our firm can help you understand your rights, prepare for hearings, and protect your interests.
Temporary and Final Orders of Protection
After a Family Offense Petition is filed, the court may issue a Temporary Order of Protection (TOP) the same day if there is reasonable cause to believe a family offense occurred. The case is then scheduled for a hearing or trial where both parties can present evidence and testimony.
At Gilmer Law Firm, PLLC, our attorneys ensure you are thoroughly prepared:
- We gather evidence, including text messages, photos, medical reports, and witness statements
- We represent you at hearings, trials, and settlement conferences
- We negotiate or litigate for fair and legally sound outcomes
If you’ve been accused of a family offense, we protect your due process rights and work to preserve your custody, housing, and reputation.
False or Misused Family Offense Claims
Unfortunately, some individuals misuse Family Offense Petitions as a tactical tool in custody or divorce cases. If you’ve been wrongfully accused, your parental rights and access to your children may be unfairly limited. A skilled New York Order of Protection Attorney can challenge false allegations and restore your standing in court.
We defend clients against:
- Exaggerated or retaliatory claims
- Orders based on miscommunication or minor arguments
- Situations where no physical violence occurred
Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence
We also proudly represent survivors who need immediate protection. Our Brooklyn Order of Protection Attorneys assist victims with:
- Emergency filing of petitions in Family Court
- Preparation of evidence and sworn affidavits
- Modifying custody and visitation to ensure child safety
- Filing violation petitions if the order is broken
Whether you need to stop harassment or escape a dangerous household, we are here to help you secure safety and stability.
Why Choose Gilmer Law Firm, PLLC?
Based in Brooklyn, New York, our firm has built a strong reputation for providing compassionate yet aggressive representation in Family Court cases, including:
- Orders of Protection
- Family Offense Hearings
- Custody and visitation modifications
- Enforcement and violation proceedings
We know the judges, court procedures, and unique challenges that affect families in Kings County. When your safety, freedom, or reputation is at stake, you can trust a Brooklyn Order of Protection Attorney from our firm to advocate fiercely on your behalf.
Contact a Brooklyn Family Offense Attorney Today
If you are involved in a Family Offense case—whether seeking an Order of Protection or defending against one—contact Gilmer Law Firm, PLLC at (718) 864-2011 or visit us at 15 Metrotech Center, 7th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
Our experienced New York Order of Protection Attorneys are ready to help you navigate the Family Court system and protect what matters most—your safety, your children, and your rights.
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