Restraining Orders

Has Someone Falsely Filed A Restraining Order Against You Or Unjustly Claimed You Violated A Restraining Order?

The surge of domestic violence and other types of harassment in the US necessitates the use of restraining orders more than ever before. While legitimate victims of abuse, harassment, or neglect deserve protection from further harm, that doesn’t mean the legal process isn’t subject to misuse or abuse. To obtain a restraining order, the plaintiff must prove the harassment or abuse is more likely to have happened than not.

But what if the abuse or harassment didn’t happen? If you’ve been charged with violating a restraining order when you haven’t, the burden of proof is more stringent – but the consequences are equally dire.

If you feel you were wrongly accused regarding a restraining order, it is vital to secure the guidance of an experienced attorney to protect your rights. With this oversight, you will be able to make well-balanced decisions while building a viable defense strategy that bolsters the credibility of your case.

Matthew Cargal: A Los Angeles County Attorney Committed To Defending Restraining Order Respondents

If you’ve been charged with violating a restraining order – or are subject to one – it’s important to know that you still have rights. In these situations, you’ll likely have questions about your legal options and what to do next. If you find yourself here, you need a restraining order lawyer who thoroughly understands the relevant law and knows how to protect your freedom and reputation.

With 30 years of experience in legal defense, Matthew Cargal has represented clients from all walks of life and developed strong relationships in the legal and law enforcement communities. He is uniquely qualified to advise you of the consequences of a restraining order and the effect its conditions can have on your life.

How Do You Defend The Charge of Violating A Restraining Order?

A conviction for violating a restraining order carries potential fines, jail time, and probation. The magnitude of these penalties increases with successive violations.

To be convicted of violating a restraining order, the prosecution must prove:

• A valid order was legally issued by a court of law
• You were notified and aware of the court order against you
• You were capable of following the order
• You willfully violated the order

Taking these proofs into consideration, possible defenses to be argued by your lawyer could include:

• Challenging the fundamental legality of the order
• Claiming you were not notified and did not know of the order’s existence
• Proving your violation of the order was not willful
• Demonstrating that you couldn’t follow the order (i.e., some of its conditions could not practically, fairly or reasonably be followed)
• Illustrating how the plaintiff’s accusations were false, made up or exaggerated

One or more of these defenses may be relevant to your situation. If you’re facing a restraining order violation charge, you’ll benefit from speaking with a qualified restraining or protective order attorney as soon as possible.

The Law Offices of Matthew Cargal Can Help Build A Solid Restraining Order Defense

Speaking with an attorney is a crucial next step if you’ve been charged with violation of a restraining order. Extenuating circumstances and sufficient evidence may exist to get your charge dismissed or penalties reduced.

What if the restraining order was legally issued, but you weren’t properly notified of its existence? What if you tried to comply in good faith with the order, but the plaintiff contacted you first or encountered you by accident? What if one of the order’s conditions made it difficult or impractical for you and the plaintiff to avoid each other?

You don’t need to feel you’re without options or a plan. Attorney Matthew Cargal has extensive experience defending restraining order violations in Pasadena and Los Angeles County. He can analyze the circumstances surrounding your charge, assess your defense and its potential for success, and advise you on how to best proceed.

Make An Appointment To Protect Your Future

Choose an attorney with a track record of success in defending restraining order cases. Contact Matthew Cargal at (626) 648-5004 to schedule an initial consultation today.