When asking to live in peace doesn’t work.

Domestic violence can be a nightmare for families and couples. It can be incredibly difficult to remove yourself from an abusive relationship, especially if your spouse controls your finances or owns your home. Many people feel trapped in these relationships, unable to break free. If you are in need of help, you can contact us at Keith Family Law. We will do whatever we can to get you and your children out of your domestic violence situation and into safety.

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What Is Considered Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence can be defined as abusive behavior directed from one person to another in a home environment.

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This behavior could be targeted at an intimate partner, a child, a parent, or siblings. Although the targets of domestic violence are often women, anyone of any age, gender, or sexual orientation can be a victim.

An abuser does not need to physically hit someone for it to be considered a case of domestic violence. Domestic violence can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or simply threats of violence or intimidation.

Keith Family Law is a full-service family law practice in Westfield, New Jersey that serves clients from Union County, Essex County, Hudson County, Morris County, Hunterdon County, Somerset County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Warren County.

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What Are Some Potential Outcomes When You Report Domestic Violence?

When you contact Keith Family Law, there are a number of things we can do to assist you in removing yourself from the situation.

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If you are over the age of 18 or an emancipated minor, the New Jersey Domestic Violence Law can provide you with protection against domestic violence from current or former spouses/partners or household members.

Our first step would be to remove you and your children from the situation entirely, finding you a safe haven. We then file a complaint in family court, requesting a temporary restraining order (TRO). If granted, there will be a hearing soon after. If evidence is found that there was domestic violence in the relationship, a Final Domestic Violence Restraining Order (FRO) will be issued. There is no time limit on how long a FRO can last.

If you are contacted by your abuser after the restraining order has been issued, contact law enforcement immediately. Your abuser may be arrested and be brought before a family court. If their guilt is determined by the judge, fines or other punishments may be imposed.

Many people are concerned that, if they report domestic violence and file for divorce, that they may lose custody of their children. The best interests of the children are always paramount in child custody cases. If there is a history of domestic violence towards you, or towards the children, this could play a major role in the type of custody ordered by the court.

Domestic violence issues are fact-sensitive and complex. If you have any questions about your specific situation, or any other areas of divorce and family law, please feel free to call us for a legal consult. We will provide you with individualized legal counsel with one of our family lawyers. You may be able to find a way to resolve your domestic violence issue that does not involve the courts, as every case is different.

Keith Family Law is a full-service family law practice in Westfield, New Jersey that serves clients from Union County, Essex County, Hudson County, Morris County, Hunterdon County, Somerset County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Warren County.

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Testimonials

“I’ll put it simply – I could go on and on about how great she was
and how important the efforts and professionalism of a divorce attorney are, but truthfully,
I couldn’t have had a better person working for me.”

Michael

"I felt that my Keith Family Law ALWAYS HAD MY BACK!!!"

Annette Beshar

“Not only did Ms. Keith help me resolve my case (in my favor) but she also helped me understand what I needed to do for myself and for my child to keep our lives moving forward in a positive direction. I would highly recommend Ms. Keith to anyone!”

Kat

"Heather is the absolute best. She helped me navigate a very painful divorce process with professionalism and patience."

Elizabeth Graner

"Lawyers often get a bad rap for being heartless and cold. In my experience with Heather Keith she is direct opposite of that. Yes you pay her to take care of your legal issues, which by the way she does with a great deal of skill, but you don't pay her to care about you as a human. This is where Heather sets herself apart. Divorce is hard and emotional. Heather helps guide you through the process with strength and support. Even when she is telling you unpleasant truths about your situation it always feels as if she understands all of your concerns. I cannot state more strongly how talented and human this woman is. In two words: hire her."

Jody Ebert

"I have worked with Heather on and off for years and couldn't have asked for someone better to be in my corner. Heather and the entire staff at Keith Family Law Group made what I was going through much easier. Heather has always answered any questions I had, she is honest and doesn't beat around the bush. She's fantastic and I'm very grateful I found her! "

Kathryn Pacelli