ORDERS OF PROTECTION: TWO SIDES TO THE STORY​
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An Order of Protection is a court document that restrains a person from contacting and harassing another. In Tennessee, there are steps to take to obtain an Order of Protection. It is first important to note that you cannot get an order of protection against just anyone. There are specific relationship requirements that must be met in order to obtain an Order of Protection. If you believe that you need an Order of Protection to keep you safe and the person fits the relationship requirement, the first step is to file a Petition for an Order of Protection with the Court Clerk of the county where the Defendant lives. Then, you have to go to court and present your evidence before a judge.
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On the other side of the issue, if you have been served with a Petition and given a court date, you also have rights. The most important of those rights is the right to a hearing before the judge. It is important to be well prepared for the hearing because if an Order of Protection is granted, you will lose rights such as the ability to legally possess firearms.
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Whether you are the Petitioner or the Defendant, it is important to have adequate knowledge of the process in obtaining or defending against an Order of Protection. Most people have never been to court, and the added stress of not knowing the system on top of the difficult situation they are in can be overwhelming. Hiring an attorney is always recommended if you find yourself in need of or defending against an Order of Protection.
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If you need to file a Petition for an Order of Protection to keep you and your family safe or if a Petition for an Order of Protection was filed against you, call us today or fill out the form below to set up a free consultation at your convenience. We look forward to working with you!