Richmond Protection Order Lawyer

A sudden threat, a growing cycle of fear, or just one night when fear finally wins out over hope can all make you realize that you or your kids need protection right away.

Frank Vendt Child Custody & Divorce Attorneys in Richmond has a protection order lawyer who gives families in Richmond the legal help and calm advice they need when their safety is at risk. Our team works quickly to get the court orders you need to give you breathing room and long-term peace of mind.

This includes filing emergency papers at the Fort Bend Justice Center and standing up for you in contested hearings.

How a Richmond, TX Protection Order Lawyer Can Help You In Your Time Of Need

When safety is the most important thing, it’s essential to act quickly and with purpose. A Richmond TX protection order lawyer from our firm will always be there for you, working hard to get you and your loved ones the legal protections you need.

Getting a protective order can be complicated and stressful, but our dedicated legal team is here to help you every step of the way.

Here’s how we can assist you:

Immediate Assessment and Guidance:

We know how critical your situation is.

Our team will quickly look into your situation, listen to your concerns with understanding, and suggest the best legal course of action for you. We help you figure out if a protective order is the right solution for your situation.

Evidence Collection and Preparation:

You need strong evidence to get a protective order.

We will help you collect the paperwork you need, like police reports, medical records, threatening messages, witness statements, and any other proof that shows you need protection. We take great care to make sure your petition is as strong as it can be.

Navigating the Legal System:

The Texas legal system can be scary. Our lawyers have extensive experience in Fort Bend County courts.

They know how to prepare and file all the necessary petitions, motions, and supporting documents. We make sure that all the required steps are taken to avoid delays or rejections.

Courtroom Representation:

Going to court, especially in cases of family violence that are very emotional, can be scary.

Your Richmond protection order lawyer will be there for you at every hearing, making your case clear and convincing, cross-examining the other parties, and answering any questions that come up. We promise to speak for you and protect your rights in court.

Distinguishing Between Orders:

Clients often don’t know if they need a protective order or a restraining order. We clearly explain the two legal tools and help you choose the best one for your needs.

Post-Order Enforcement:

Getting an order is only half the battle when it comes to post-order enforcement. If someone breaks the rules of a protective order, it is essential to take legal action right away.

We can quickly file motions to enforce the order and work with law enforcement to ensure compliance and hold accountable those who don’t.

Strategic Defense Against False Accusations:

If you have been wrongly accused of family violence and are facing a protective order petition, our firm can also help you.

We know how serious a protective order is and will do everything we can to protect your rights and reputation.

When you choose Frank Vendt Child Custody & Divorce Attorneys, you select a partner who cares about your safety and well-being. We care about you and are firm, so you will get both the legal help and the personal support you need during this difficult time.

What is a Protection Order in Texas?

A Texas protective order is a civil court order that limits the actions or contact of someone who has committed family violence, stalking, sexual assault, or trafficking.

It puts immediate limits on behavior without needing a criminal conviction, unlike a criminal no-contact condition. People who break the law can go to jail for up to a year and pay fines, which is a strong incentive to keep victims safe.

Types of Protective Orders

In Texas, protective orders can be issued in different forms depending on the urgency and specific circumstances of the case. Understanding these distinctions is crucial, and your protection order attorney will advise on the most appropriate type for your situation, ensuring the highest level of safety for you and your family.

Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order

Issued the same day on sworn testimony if the judge believes clear danger exists. Lasts up to 20 days but may be extended.

Final Protective Order

Granted after a full hearing; can remain in force for up to two years—or longer if the court finds severe harm or multiple violations.

Protective Orders vs. Restraining Orders

A restraining order is a civil injunction typically tied to divorce, instructing parties not to harass or hide assets. It lacks criminal teeth. A protective order, by contrast, is enforceable by police 24/7 and listed in the TCIC/NCIC databases.

Legal Basis for Protective Orders in Texas

The Texas Family Code, specifically Chapter 85, is the basis for protective orders in Texas. Our lawyers are very familiar with these laws and use them to make strong cases and keep you safe.

 Required Findings for Issuance of Protective Order:

Texas Family Code § 85.001

This law tells the court what it must find to issue a protective order. The court’s main job is to see that family violence has happened and is likely to happen again in the future.

This is the primary legal barrier that must be overcome to obtain an order, underscoring the importance of having strong evidence.

Contents of Protective Order:

Texas Family Code § 85.021

This part of the article talks about the specific rules and restrictions that a court can put in a protective order. It gives the court considerable power to make the order fit the victim’s needs.

For example, it can stop the abuser from taking a child out of the court’s jurisdiction, transferring property that both people own, or even giving the victim sole possession of a home that they both own.

It makes sure that there is complete protection, not just from direct contact.

Prohibited Conduct:

Texas Family Code § 85.022

This law clearly states what a person who has been found guilty of family violence cannot do. These restrictions are meant to prevent further harm.

They include things like committing family violence, threatening or harassing someone, getting too close to the protected person’s home, work, or child’s school, or having a gun. This part is vital for the order to be enforceable and valid.

To get through the process successfully, you need to understand these laws. Our team of order of protection lawyers uses this exact legal knowledge to fight for you in court and make sure that the court issues an order that really protects you and your loved ones.

What To Ask The Court If You Are In Need of a Protection Order

It’s important to know that protective orders in Texas can be tailored to your specific safety needs when you ask for one. A well-written protective order protects you from more abuse or threats in every way.

For your safety and peace of mind, it’s essential to know precisely what help you can ask the court for.

Our team of experienced Richmond protection order lawyers at Frank Vendt Child Custody & Divorce Attorneys will help you find and ask for all the provisions you need.

Prohibit Violence & Threats:

Order the abuser to cease all acts of family violence, harassment, or threats.

Enforce No Contact:

Bar the abuser from contacting you, your children, family members, pets, or approaching your home, workplace, or children’s school/daycare.

Prohibit Firearm Possession:

Prevent the abuser from possessing a gun or a handgun license.

Grant Exclusive Residence:

Give you exclusive possession of a shared home, ordering the abuser to leave.

Address Child Matters:

Include provisions for child custody, visitation, and support.

Prevent Tracking:

Prohibit physical or electronic tracking of you or your property.

What Does a Person Asking for a Restraining Order Have to Prove?

To secure a protective order, you must prove:

Family violence or a threat has occurred:

Show evidence of past harm, assault, or serious threats (police reports, texts, credible testimony).

Likelihood of recurrence:

Demonstrate that future violence is probable through patterns of harassment, stalking, or escalating behavior.

What Happens if I’m Accused of Violating an Order?

Violating a protective order is a serious criminal offense in Texas:

Criminal Charges:

Typically a Class A misdemeanor, potentially escalating to a third-degree felony if stalking or multiple violations are involved.

Immediate Arrest:

Police can arrest on probable cause. Judges rarely show leniency for repeated breaches.

Our Approach:

We advise strict compliance for respondents and, if necessary, seek legal modifications rather than risking criminal charges.

What is the Process of Filing a Protection Order?

Our Richmond protection order lawyer team guides you through each step:

Consultation:

Discuss your situation, and gather necessary documents.

Ex Parte Filing:

We draft and file an affidavit, often presented to a judge the same day for immediate, temporary protection.

Service of Process:

The order is legally delivered to the respondent by a constable, becoming effective immediately upon issuance (enforceable once served).

Hearing:

For ex parte orders, a full hearing occurs within approximately 14 days, where both sides present evidence for a final order.

Entry & Enforcement:

Certified copies go to law enforcement and to you, with guidance on how to ensure the order’s enforcement.

Contact a Richmond Protection Order Lawyer for a Consultation Today!

You can’t wait for your safety and peace of mind. It’s time to take action if you or someone you care about is living in fear or facing threats in Richmond, Texas.

Frank Vendt Child Custody & Divorce Attorneys is here to give you the quick and effective legal protection you need.

You can reach Frank Vendt or Scott M. Broussard for a private, same-day consultation by calling 281-944-5485 or filling out our secure contact form.

Our team of caring and experienced Richmond protection order lawyers will quickly figure out your short- and long-term legal options for keeping you and your kids safe. We know how complex these situations can be on your emotions, and we are committed to being both understanding and tough in our advocacy.

Take back control of your life and secure the safety you deserve. We invite you to explore client success stories on our Testimonials page and learn more about our mission and the expertise of our team members like Frank Vendt and Scott M. Broussard on our firm profile.

When you’re ready, schedule your free, private case review—because safety for you and your family starts with a single, empowered step.

Texas Protection Order Lawyer Frequently Asked

How long does a Richmond protective order last?

A Final Protective Order typically lasts for up to two years. However, if the court finds that serious bodily harm occurred or if there are multiple violations by the abuser, the order can be extended for a longer duration, sometimes even for the lifetime of the offender.

Can I get exclusive use of the house?

Yes. If you share a residence with the abuser, the court can issue an order granting you exclusive possession of the home. This means the abuser would be ordered to leave and prohibited from returning, providing you with immediate security in your own home.

Do I pay filing fees?

Typically, petitioners for protective orders in Texas family violence cases are exempt from paying filing fees. The court recognizes the critical need for protection and aims to remove financial barriers for victims.

Is the order valid outside Texas?

Yes, a protective order issued in Texas is generally valid and enforceable in all other U.S. states, tribes, and territories under the federal Full Faith and Credit clause. This means other jurisdictions are legally obligated to enforce the terms of your Texas protective order.

What if the abuser lives with me?

If the abuser lives with you, the judge can order their immediate removal from the residence by law enforcement once the protective order is issued. The court can also set specific, supervised times for the abuser to retrieve their personal belongings, ensuring your safety during this process.