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New York Order of Protection Lawyers

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Orders of Protection are directives meant to provide security to persons deemed by the court as being under threat. Filing a criminal case is not required to be able to petition the court for an order of protection however, the court can issue an order of protection even without being requested to by the person who is deemed to be under threat.

 

Orders of protection can be a helpful way of securing the welfare of individuals who are being threatened but the issuance of a protective order can also have a long-standing effect on the life of the person it is filed against. At Lebedin Kofman LLP, our team of skilled New York Order of Protection lawyers may be able to assist you in fighting against an order of protection and defending your rights. If your order of protection was issued by a criminal court, we may be able to assist in lifting the restraining order and getting your domestic violence charges dismissed. Our New York City criminal defense attorneys leverage years of experience and knowledge of the law to provide quality assistance to New York residents in need of quality legal assistance.

Experienced New York City Criminal Defense Attorneys Discuss The Law Regarding Orders of Protection

In New York, an order of protection – also called a restraining order – can be issued to require a defendant to stay away from a person, often because the court has deemed the defendant as a danger to the protected person.

 

New York state allows criminal and family courts to issue orders of protection. This article focuses on restraining orders issued by the New York Criminal Court. The criminal court issues protective orders on account of criminal charges that involve violent acts or the threat to commit violent acts.

 

While a family court can issue protective orders in response to a petition, in criminal court the following steps must be followed before an order can be issued:

 

  • A person must first be arrested under probable cause
  • The person of interest must be charged by a prosecutor or the District Attorney’s Office
  • Depending on the circumstances of the case, a judge will determine whether an order of protection must be issued to protect the welfare of other stakeholders in the case

 

It is important to note that orders of protection can show up on background checks depending on the reason why the order was imposed and the nature of the background check. Protective orders issued by a criminal court can show up on a background check and will be part of the public record.

 

In criminal court, a petitioner can seek an order even without an ongoing or current criminal case. Even if the criminal act that requires the order of protection to be issued happened in the past, a petitioner can file for a protective order. However, the chances of the order being granted are higher the sooner the petition is filed.

 

Protective orders issued by the criminal court often follow emergency events wherein a person is threatened or injured. After such an incident, the person who was threatened or injured can come to the police to see if they are eligible for an order of protection. Information provided to law enforcement will be included in a Domestic Incident Report. A judge can issue a bench warrant or a warrant of arrest can be made to put the alleged offender in custody if they deem the threat to be substantial to issue a protective order.

 

If the protected person and the defendant share a residence, the defendant may be allowed to remove their personal belongings from the shared residence within a specific period of time. If there is an existing visitation order or a separation agreement, it may also be possible for parents to visit with their children.

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Different Types of Orders of Protection

Orders or protection can be issued in New York by three judicial bodies and can differ with regard to the intent of the order and the relationship of the people it protects and protects against:

 

  • New York Family Court – issues protective orders against domestic abuse and violence. Usually issued to protect people from intimate partners or family members
  • New York Criminal Court – issues protective orders on a case-by-case basis. The relationship of the individuals involved can be limited by their involvement in a specific case. A restraining order can be issued against an individual that presents a significant threat of harm to another person or makes them feel fearful for their well-being.
  • The Supreme Court of New York – Can issue orders of protection both to cases in the family and criminal courts.

 

Orders of protection from the family court or civil court are often issued following a domestic disturbance or charges such as the following: domestic violence, assault and battery, sex crimes, and child endangerment. In cases such as these where the complainant and the defendant may share a home, the defendant may be required to find another place of residence while the case is ongoing. Orders of protection may be issued by the family court if the alleged abuser has a domestic or intimate relationship with the complainant. If the alleged abuser has a current or former intimate relationship with the complainant, is the complainant’s current or former spouse or spouse, or shares a familial relationship with the complainant, the chances of a protective order being issued are increased.

 

For protective orders issued in criminal court, a protective order can be issued after an investigation provides enough evidence that there is a threat to the well-being of persons involved in the case. If the court determines that there is a danger of the defendant interfering or intimidating witnesses to avoid a conviction, an order of protection may be issued. Unlike protective orders issued by a family court, there is no need for the complainant and the defendant to have a personal relationship to be able to issue a protective order. An Assistant District Attorney can request a criminal court order of protection against the defendant.

 

The Supreme Court can issue orders of protection in a divorce case or a criminal proceeding. For criminal cases, the petition can be made by an attorney on the complainant’s behalf through a written or oral request.

 

There are two types of orders of protection in New York. While the circumstances in which protective orders may vary across the three bodies, a protective order holds the same degree of protection and liability when violated across the three judicial bodies.

Under a Full Order of Protection, both parties must not contact one another directly or through third parties. A stay-away order is valid in any jurisdiction in the State of New York and can be used to keep the defendant from getting near the residence, school, business, or places of employment of the protected person.

A full order of protection can also prohibit the defendant from contacting the protective party via mail or other electronic means.

Limited Orders of Protection serve to prevent defendants from making contact with witnesses to harass, intimidate, or menace, whether to impact the outcome of a case or otherwise. With a limited order of protection, the defendant and the recipient of the protective order may cohabitate and communicate as long as there is no threat to the welfare of the protected person.

The limitations of protective orders can vary depending on the case and the criminal charges involved. While a limited order of protection may initially be issued, the court can include more restrictions if the defendant abuses the allowances they are given to contact the protected person or if the defendant commits an act of violence towards the protected person.

A judge will be the one who ultimately decides on the length and terms of a protective order. Temporary orders of protection may require service before it goes into effect. Service means the formal delivery of legal documents to the respondent in a case. For orders of protection, service is typically done to inform the defendant of the terms and conditions of the order of protection.

The complainant may not serve their own order of protection. Service can only be done by the following individuals:

  • The judge issuing the order of protection in court if the defendant is in the audience
  • A New York Sheriff or Deputy
  • A police officer of the NYPD from the precinct where the defendant resides
  • A family member or a friend above 18 years old as long as the person is not directly involved in the case. In this scenario, an Affidavit of Service needs to be completed, notarized, and filed with the court as soon as the order of protection has been served.

 

As soon as you are served an order of protection as a defendant in a case, it is essential to retain the help of a skilled New York order of protection attorney. An attorney can help you understand the law and provide you with experienced counsel. Having an order of protection filed against you is a serious matter. At Lebedin Kofman, LLP., we may be able to assist you by building a strong legal defense in support of lifting the protection order and achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Violation of the Order of Protection

Violating an order of protection can incur criminal charges. Individuals who violate an order of protection can face up to 7 years in jail if they are charged with criminal contempt.

 

For full protection orders, even the physical presence of the defendant in the household of the protected person can be a cause of the violation. Penalties for the crime of Criminal Contempt for the Violation of a Protection Order can range from Criminal Contempt in the Second Degree (Class A Misdemeanor) to Criminal Contempt in the First Degree (Class E Felony). Additional charges can follow if the defendant insists on being on the property or continuing communication with the protected person while prohibited to.

 

While it would be ill-advised, protected persons cannot legally violate an order of protection. However, for those who have a protective order against them, it is advisable to contact a skilled New York order of protection lawyer who can help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

 

Especially in cases wherein a full order of protection is in place, if the person who has an order or protection against you chooses to contact you for any reason, you should notify your attorney immediately. Responding to any form of communication may result in legal consequences. Contact Lebedin Kofman, LLP today to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled attorneys.

How Long Does An Order of Protection Last?

Temporary orders of protection in New York typically last until the next court date for the case. Additional extensions may be granted if the court determines that there is a need. A final order of protection issued by the criminal court can last up to 8 years depending on aggravating factors such as the specific circumstances of the case, especially the crime that was committed. A final order of protection is issued following a conviction, either by plea or after a trial has been conducted.

 

Once a restraining order is in place, only a judge can lift it. Temporary orders of protection issued for an ongoing case can be lifted immediately if the charges are dismissed.

 

A judge can also deem the issuance of a protective order to be necessary depending on the circumstances upon a conclusion of a criminal case. An order of protection issued at this time can range from one that expires a year after issuance or one that is permanent. The duration of time the order can last depends on the threat the defendant presents to the witness and the conviction.

 

It is important to keep in mind that orders of protection cannot be lifted just because the protected person has had a change of mind. Even if the protected person contacts the defendant asking to resume contact and states that they will petition the court to lift the restriction, it is still prudent to wait until the legal processes involved have been completed before making contact. People under the protection of a protective order cannot be held legally liable for violating the terms of an order of protection.

 

A skilled attorney can petition the court to lift or change the terms of a protection order on the defendant’s behalf. However, it is important to make sure that you are aware of which court issued the protection order. Only a criminal court can lift an order of protection issued by the criminal court and it has no jurisdiction over directives issued by a family court.

 

Orders of protection issued outside of New York can be enforced in the state as long as it follows federal law. It is important to also remember that a petition for modification or dismissal of an order of protection will only be entertained in the state that imposed the order in the first place.

 

To learn more about how out-of-state protection orders work, how to file a petition to dismiss an order of protection, or to learn more about how to protect yourself from potential issues involving orders of protection, contact an experienced New York order of protection attorney today. At Lebedin Kofman, LLP., our team of competent attorneys may be able to assist you in dealing with your order of protection and inform you of your options on how to fight against the order.

How A New York Order of Protection Attorney Can Help

If a restraining order has been issued against you, getting the help of a lawyer with the necessary legal experience and knowledge of the laws involved is important. If your protective order was issued by a NY criminal court, the counsel you get should come from a competent criminal defense attorney who is familiar with handling similar cases.

 

A lawyer can help you make informed decisions about your case and walk you through what you can and cannot do while the protective order is in effect. Your attorney should also be able to advise you about the legal repercussions of not abiding by the order of protection.

 

If you have been charged with Criminal Contempt for the Violation of a Protection Order, an attorney can assist in defending your rights against your charges and represent your best interests in court.

Working With A Skilled New York Order of Protection Attorney From Lebedin Kofman LLP

Having an order of protection issued against you can severely limit your ability to conduct your daily activities if the protected person is a significant part of your life. An order of protection issued by the criminal court shows up in background checks and can affect your job opportunities, housing options, and even custody cases.

 

At Lebedin Kofman LLP, our team of top-rated New York Order of Protection Attorneys provides tailored legal representation and assistance that takes our clients’ best interests as a priority. You don’t have to face your charges alone. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation with one of our NY restraining order attorneys.

Testimonials

Client Reviews

Joan Paterson
Joan Paterson
21 days ago
I hired Russ to represent me in a domestic violence/criminal case in Manhattan. From the beginning to end of the case, he was professional, supportive and dependable. He alleviated all of my concerns with the possible outcome of my case by assuring me the case would be dismissed. He was absolutely right and successfully got my case dismissed. He was always there, any time of the day or night to answer any questions or concerns. I highly recommend obtaining him as your attorney, he is the best you can find to have in your corner!!
Gwendolyn Dobson
Gwendolyn Dobson
21 days ago
I had the pleasure of using Lebedin Kofman LLP, i was greatly satisfied, my son had a very difficult case, assault on NYC police officer, and he got the case completely dismissed. They also work with you on payment plans, all in all i was very pleased, and would definitely use them again. But really hoping I won't need to! lol
Michael
Michael
21 days ago
I am writing this review to state Big Russ got me back Big Buck for my case.I thank God for Mr. Russ Kofman,and his fine team of lawyers and paralegals. That have the resources and knowledge to make the City and NYC Police Department Paid for what they did to me falsely arrested and falsely incarcerated me. Iam so Graceful ,Thankful and Well Please about the result of my case Mr.Kofman and that fine team of yours .All my plain and all my Suffering did not go away but it sure will help me along the way with that financial blessing.Its just fantastic and so amazing how much I got back. You guys guided me every step of the way.I appreciate all the time and all the effort it took for my result.You guys are heaven send. Thank You Mr.Russ Kofman an Team HALLELUJAH THANK YOU JESUS!!! God bless You Michael
Konkon Padios
Konkon Padios
21 days ago
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Saw this law firm online, based on good reviews, I contacted their office and Attorney Arthur Lebedin called me back outright and had given me consultations for free.  I went to his office and Atty. Arthur was so gracious listening to my woes with regards to my credit card debts.  He’s very knowledgeable of what he does and very professional too. Atty Arthur and everyone down the line - worked hand in hand to make things right for me sooner than I thought.  I paid just 1/3 of my outstanding obligations and saved over $9,200+ from the original amount I’m supposed to pay.  What an excellent settlement! So grateful to be represented by these amazing lawyers most especially to Attorney Arthur Lebedin, Attorney Stephannie Miranda and the rest of their team.  Needless to say, their professional fees are way too reasonable and fair with an option to pay it on an installment basis.  My case was settled/resolved in no less time.  Exceeded my expectations.  What a relief on my part for these settlement that they negotiated on my behalf.  Thank you very much.

Highly recommended!
Donald Morris
Donald Morris
21 days ago
I have been working with different law firms throughout my career. I have had a variety of experiences some good some bad. With that said, my experience with Lebedin Kofman LLP was stellar. They more than delivered. My experience could not have been better. Arthur and his team really had my back. I did alot of research upfront before selecting them and it really paid off. I cannot thank them enough.
Kurt R.
Kurt R.
21 days ago
We needed legal representation in NYC after our son got into some trouble at a nightclub with an overly aggressive bouncer. Living on the west coast, we were worried about getting the best representation for his case, being so far away. We took the leap and called up Russ Kofman based on the high reviews we saw on Yelp. He was very knowledgeable about the type of case and what could be hoped for in terms of trying to get the charges reduced from misdemeanor to violation. Although the hearing date was over 2 months out, we did not hear from the DA until almost the day before the hearing which was frustrating but out of our control. We then were assigned to work with Sahar Shams, an Associate at the firm that did a great job with last minutes planning and communication with us. Sahar had worked in the DA's office and so had a great insider's view of how they work. She was able to negotiate with the DA office to get the charges reduced even further than he hoped down to an ACD with additional favorable conditions which was a great relief for our son and us. Thanks to Sahar and Russ for the great service. We highly recommend them and the firm!
Coleman O.
Coleman O.
21 days ago
I have been blown away with the level of dedication, customer service and patience provided by this firm.  My husband had acquired a large amount of debt from school (an education he was unable to finish due to extenuating circumstances) and that debt was always hovering over him.  The debt collectors were offering ridiculous payment plans ($600 - $1200 a month when my husband only made $1000 a month).  Finding any resolution seemed hopeless, and then the loan went into default.  We knew we needed to seek help. My husband and I had a preliminary meeting with Arthur Lebedin to go over the details of the issues.  He was very understanding, patient and explained everything to us in terms we could understand.  He assured us that his firm has a good relationship with many debt collectors and they'd been successful in reaching agreements/payment plans that work for both parties. We had a lot of back and forth, but that's a good thing in this case.  They always kept us updated with what was going on.  We were dealing directly with Esta Kravets, a paralegal who went above and beyond the negotiate our debt agreement.  She worked with us over several months and assured us she would get us a deal that we could be comfortable with.  Anytime I was worried about the amount of time that had gone by, I was reassured that they were handling everything. And they did!  My husband ended up paying 1/3rd of his original debt.  That's amazing!  Resolving our debt paired with the overall professionalism and service they provided us during the entire process is what makes me give 5 stars.
Jennifer
Jennifer
21 days ago
Russ handled my domestic violence case which flowed into a very messy divorce. He guided me throw this very scary process and resolved the criminal case very quickly, then turned the tables on my husband and absolutely wiped the floor with his divorce lawyer. I was very happy standing next to him in court and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a powerhouse lawyer. His fees were also very reasonable and the fact that you get a great team of lawyers working for you helps very much.
G-Check G.
G-Check G.
21 days ago
Going in for my DMV chemical refusal case, I was very anxious having my license being revoked for a up to a year. The odds were stacked against me, having little hope of any positive certainty. Russ Kofman explained in great detail of what I was facing and the fines that would accompany me in the near future. He showed me his plan and the research he had done. During the safety hearing I was able to witness the powerhouse that Russ Kofman is. He was able to dismiss my case and save tons of money on future fines. Leaving the court room I thought I was dreaming! Thank you Russ Kofman!
Matthew Rivera
Matthew Rivera
21 days ago
I have used them for my civil cases and my criminal cases they are very hard working and professional. They will stop at nothing to see that you get the justice you deserve and i highly recommend them to anyone who is in need of a great law firm. Lastly i would like to thank them for sticking by me and proving my innocence.
Kristen Kennelly
Kristen Kennelly
21 days ago
Amazing! I highly recommend Russ Kofman! My case was a difficult one and now I'm here without any criminal record thanks to Russ. He is highly skilled in DUI law and criminal defense law. I would recommend him to anyone. I'm so grateful that I chose him as my lawyer !! Very professional, if you're in need of a lawyer that truly is going to get you the best offer possible regarding a DUI, then I suggest Russ Kofman.
 Josh
Josh
21 days ago
Arthur was extremely kind and helpful when I first called him to get some advice on how to settle some credit card debt and student loan issues.

He was patient, understanding and clear and set my mind at ease about the entire situation. His team has been excellent in helping settle debts for substantially less than owed and have been an invaluable resource when it comes to helping get my financial house in order.

I would not hesitate to hire Arthur again and will do so if the need arises in the future.
Vasya I.
Vasya I.
21 days ago
I had a very tough felony cocaine possession and sale case in Queens. I was falsely accused and only Mr. Kofman believed in me. He worked non stop to get my case solved. The investigator he sent out found the evidence that later acquitted me. My family is forever grateful to this firm and I would tell you to call them if your family or friend is ever in trouble. They pick up the phone at any time even when my girlfriend called them at 2 or 3 am in an emergency. Kofman knows drug cases in and out and saved my family a ton of money on bail because he got me ror when the prosecutor was asking for a hundred thousand dollars bail bc of my history.
Satram P.
Satram P.
21 days ago
I was in a case of self-defense and Russ Kaufmann help me get my freedom back. They were trying to give me 2 - 7 years for something I didn't do and  Russ Kaufman believed in me and made sure that everything was going to be taken care of. After a few months of the court system delays the case was thrown out and i was a free man. thank you for everything. The professionalism the respect in the quality of care is superb. Hands down the best lawyer I have ever encountered.  A+ QUALITY FIRM. A definite recommendation to anyone.
Johnathan Franceschi
Johnathan Franceschi
21 days ago
Lebedin Kofman has been great to me. They were very understanding regarding my lawsuit and did everything in their power to help me. Kelsey Was amazing, answered back in a timely manner whenever I had Questions and never made me feel uncomfortable or like It wasn’t worth it. They worked hard and ended up getting me a nice sized lawsuit. I appreciate them for all of their work and would recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer who actually cares about you and your case.
James Garland
James Garland
21 days ago
Lebedin Kofman LLP is INCREDIBLE!!!!! Arthur and his team demonstrate exceptional professionalism and legal expertise. I was so scared when I received a letter from the court but, Arthur and his team took the time to carefully explain my options and they worked with me to find a solution. Not only did they solve the problem, they got the case thrown out. I can't praise their work enough.  I've never written a review in my life , but, I had to for Lebedin Kofman LLP.
Lain
Lain
21 days ago
I was charged with grand larceny. Russ Kofman and his team had all criminal charges against me dropped, I was found guilty of a minor violation. At all times Russ and his associates were available for me and were extremely helpful and professional. I hope that I never have a need for a lawyer again, however Russ Kofman would be my only choice should the need arise.
Sharone
Sharone
21 days ago
I had criminal charges against me and needed to hire a lawyer fast. I decided to call Russ Kofman and told him about my case. The cops locked me up and Russ and his team made sure that I was going to get out. Russ told me to keep calm and let him handle everything. Words can’t explain how Russ got me out less then 34 hours and to top it off he made the DA dropped the charges and had the case dismissed.After I got out Lebedin Kofman and I decided to file a lawsuit against the city, and they got me a great settlement.

Do not hesitate to call this firm because they will be right by your side every step of the way. They surely live up to their great reviews.
T M
T M
21 days ago
I contacted this firm after spending nearly a year worrying about the consequences of answering a bench warrant. After submitting my information online I was called later that day and spoke to the attorney. His professionalism and knowledge were immediately comforting and I knew I had made the right move. I appeared in court with an attorney from the firm who guided me every step of the way. I only wish I would I have contacted Lebedin Kofman earlier instead of letting fear of the justice system get the best of me. Thank you Lebedin Kofman for helping me get back on the right track, I would highly recommend this firm.
Dennis C.
Dennis C.
21 days ago
I had a very dicey refusal that could have gone very badly. Russ was able to get me the best deal possible. He represented me at the DMV refusal hearing, and got it dropped entirely. No fees, loss of license or points! Additionally, in the criminal charges, he worked diligently for months and got that dropped to a violation. When I contacted Russ, I was looking at a very long term loss of my license and a permanent criminal record. But his knowledge of the law and hard work got me the best results imaginable. I would highly recommend him!
Peter
Peter
21 days ago
I had such a great experience with Arthur. I was impressed with how quickly he worked on my case and delivered a result that was beyond what I had expected. He responded to all my questions quickly and allayed my worries. I was lucky to have found him and I would definitely consult him again if any future issues arise.
Jasper MIcheals
Jasper MIcheals
21 days ago
These guys are great! I am a student in college that made the mistake of drinking and driving. Needless to say, that will never happen again but the entire experience was traumatic. These guys were able to dismiss my criminal charges and find the best possible outcome for my situation. I highly recommend them for their dedication, expertise and professionalism!
Marie
Marie5 days ago
After previously hiring 2 law firms, I had almost lost hope of reaching an affordable settlement for a judgment when I came across the website of Mr. Lebedin. In my first conversation with him, Mr. Lebedin listened attentively and then gave a clear assessment of the case, where he explained several options. Because of his honesty, I hired his firm right away. His legal team updated me on their progress via email during several months of tough negotiations. Mr. Lebedin and his team identified stumbling blocks in the negotiations, which they resolved to get an acceptable settlement agreement. After the creditor received payment, Mr. Lebedin and his team followed through to make sure that the creditor and their counsel honored their part of the agreement. I cannot thank Mr. Lebedin and his staff enough for their commitment and persistence in resolving this case. The associate attorney on the case, Ms. Miranda, was outstanding. I highly recommend Mr. Lebedin and the law firm of Lebedin Kofman LLP.
Greg C.
Greg C.
21 days ago
I was charged with a DWI last year. I definitely did not know what to do. Until I did my research and found out about this law firm. Amazing lawyers who worked hard on my case and got it dismissed!! I would recommend Lebedin Kofman to anyone looking for a DWI lawyer in NYC!
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