The Coronavirus outbreak has many people in America struggling. Amid concerns about the spread of the virus, communities are on lockdown and many people have been told to stay home. For some people, this could increase domestic altercations. Fights between domestic partners may escalate as tensions run high. Unemployment, anxiety about the virus and a disrupted way of life may only increase those tensions. In fact, in some parts of the country, federal agencies have reported more than 2x the amount of domestic violence calls. The National Domestic Violence Hotline has seen nearly 2,000 calls a day. As such, during this time, law enforcement officers are still responding to calls of domestic violence. If you are arrested for domestic violence during this time, you can face serious penalties and consequences.
Restraining Orders and a Global Pandemic
While most courts are closing down, domestic violence victims are still able to get restraining orders against their abusers. Protective orders are there to protect the victim from further abuse. Hearings are continuing for emergency protection orders at this time, but this could change at any moment. However, some states are increasing the length of emergency protection orders to help accommodate reduced staffing in courts.
In Denver, Colorado’s Supreme Court Chief Justice announced an order regarding the operation of courts across the state. This order suspended many court operations, including all jury case. However, petitions for temporary civil protection orders and permanent protection order hearings were still allowed at this time. In addition, petitions for temporary emergency risk protection orders and hearings were still allowed. As the Coronavirus spreads across the country, however, these orders could change drastically.
Are You Facing Restraining Orders?
If you are arrested and charged with domestic violence, you may not be able to return to your home, your work or you family during this time. These are serious charges that could affect your entire life and your health during the global pandemic. As such, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side from the very start. You need someone who can fight for your rights during this uncertain time.
It is important to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney at this time to determine how COVID-19 will affect your case and restraining orders. These are uncertain times, but you still have rights. Boulder criminal defense lawyer, Steven Louth can help during this time. Call his law office today at 303-442-2297 or fill out the contact form on this page to schedule a free consultation.