Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, families are forced to stay at home all day and every day. When you combine job loss due to the closure of many businesses, dealing with the financial stress of supporting the household, and the daily cycle of negative news, these are all conditions leading to domestic violence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), domestic abuse generally increases during times of crisis, such as epidemics and natural disasters.
In a news conference on April 1, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said that one hospital in Atlanta has experienced a 15-percent rise in domestic violence cases. Anti-domestic violence advocates are concerned survivors will find reaching out for help to be more difficult because they are forced to spend all day with their abusers.
Although the state and local courts have suspended all criminal and civil jury trials, they remain open to hearing essential matters, especially if a person is dealing with an immediate threat to his/her safety and liberty. Hearings categorized as essential include first criminal court appearances, arrest and search warrants, juvenile court matters, emergency removals, and temporary protective orders for family violence.
The following are the two types of family violence protective orders in Georgia:
Temporary ex parte order – This protective order protects victims from the abuser until the scheduled court hearing to obtain a long-term family violence order. To order may also last up to 30 days.
Family violence protective order – This order lasts up to one year with the possibility of a three-year extension depending on the circumstances of the case.
Victims may petition for a temporary protective order at their closest police station or local court office. The petition must also include evidence related to the incident, such as police reports, medical records, photos, text messages, social media, posts, or information related to a person’s criminal history.
Whether you are a current client or have recently been the victim of domestic violence in Gwinnett County and considering your legal options, Daniels & Taylor, P.C. can help you obtain a protective order on your behalf. Our Lawrenceville firm can guide you through the legal process and make sure you are protected during this trying and uncertain time.
For more information about our legal services, contact us today at (770) 285-1673. Helping clients throughout Gwinnett County since 1994.