Wisconsin Protective Order Defense

If you’ve been served with a protective order (also called a restraining order) or if a temporary protective order has been issued against you, there’s important information you need to know and steps you need to take immediately.

This court order prohibits all contact between the petitioner who filed the protective order and you, who will be referred to as the defendant. This includes any personal interaction, including talking in person, on the phone, or even being within a certain proximity of that individual. But other forms of contact are also prohibited, such as written or electronic communication – even social media.

A person who has filed a complaint of harassment, abuse, stalking or domestic assault can petition the court for an emergency protective order. The same day he or she files the petition, a hearing will be held during which the individual will testify why a temporary protective order is necessary. But you, the defendant, won’t be allowed to attend this hearing.

If the judge grants the temporary protective order—and most are unfortunately granted even with very little evidence—it will be served to you shortly thereafter. After this, a judge will determine in a court hearing whether to dismiss the protective order or convert it to a more permanent status. It’s imperative that you not miss this hearing. After you’ve been served, a missed court date means automatic change in status from temporary protective order to permanent.

A Milwaukee Protective Order Defense Attorney can guide you every step of the way, fighting for your rights at all of your court appearances.  The lawyers at Huppertz & Powers, S.C. understand how frustrating it is to be the subject of such an order, and that it may carry serious consequences for you in terms of future employment and legal rights. Unfortunately, even unintentional violations can also lead to misdemeanor and felony charges.

If you’ve been served with a protective order, contact one of our Wisconsin Protective Order Defense Attorneys today for a 100% free initial consultation. You can call 262-549-5979, fill out our criminal defense intake form, or send us an email for a prompt response.