Lompoc Restraining Orders Defense Attorney
Domestic violence, abuse, and assault are serious charges. They’re just as serious when someone is falsely accused of these crimes.
Although restraining orders are aimed at protecting individuals from harm, there are many instances in which defendants are falsely accused. This is especially true for men, who are generally viewed as having a higher tendency towards violence than women.
When it comes to representing his clients in battery, domestic violence, and restraining order cases, Sanford Horowitz’s successful legal defense career speaks for itself. A former Prosecutor for the District Attorney’s Offices in Santa Barbara and San Diego Counties, Sanford Horowitz is a seasoned professional whose experience, expertise, and strategies have allowed clients throughout the Lompoc region to reclaim their personal freedom.
Call us at (805) 749-5670 or contact us online today to set up a free consultation.
Trusted Defense For Complex Criminal Cases
Being charged with a crime such as domestic violence or violation of a restraining order can impact your personal life and reputation.
If a restraining order is filed against you, having a highly experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is a must. Sanford Horowitz Criminal Defense, P.C. has defended numerous clients throughout various cities in Santa Barbara County (including Lompoc, Santa Barbara, Montecito, Goleta, and Santa Maria) who have faced a variety of charges, including assault and battery, domestic violence, probation violations, and restraining orders.
LOMPOC – FIGHTING A RESTRAINING ORDER PETITION
Throughout his time defending clients in the city of Lompoc, Sanford Horowitz has come to the belief that restraining order petitions can be a complicated, problematic legal area.
Restraining orders are typically filed against persons thought to be abusive or exhibiting threatening behavior towards a current or former spouse, partner, boyfriend, girlfriend, or family member. Restraining orders are meant to protect individuals from violence or stalking, as they prevent the accused party from contacting the person who filed the restraining order.
If you’re a Lompoc resident who is facing a civil restraining order, it’s possible that someone in your life feels that you have engaged in harassing behavior – this type of restraining order is common among neighbors.
Often times, claims of domestic violence, civil harassment, and elder abuse restraining order may are filed when no one’s safety is truly at risk. This is often the case in many family law situations. An ex-spouse may have wanted full ownership of any formerly shared residence and property, sole custody of any shared children, or personal vengeance against the defendant. For example, a spouse or ex-spouse might make false accusations of domestic violence as leverage to gain the court’s sympathy and the upper hand in family law cases. Sadly, false accusations can implicate the defendant for possible future crimes.
If you are facing the possibility of a restraining order, your personal and professional life and reputation could be at stake. However, most courts will call for temporary restraining orders rather than deciding on a permanent restraining order right away.
Those who are issued restraining orders are in violation of the law should they appear at the victim’s residence, workplace, or any place he or she frequently visits. Contacting the petitioner via phone calls, text, email, or social media is also considered violating of the court order.
The consequences of violating a restraining order are serious – you may be arrested, forced to pay a fine, and/or serve a jail sentence. The restraining order may also be amended to stay in effect for an even longer period of time.
The following may be used as defenses to help your case in court:
- Proof that the petitioner has made false accusations
- Lack of sufficient evidence of violence/aggressive behavior provided by the so-called victim
- No evidence of harassing, abusive, or otherwise characteristics in defendant
Additionally, the defendant may be able to rely on his or her own spotless criminal record, the alleged victim’s medical records, and witness testimonies to prove innocence.
To further protect yourself from false allegations, you may also:
- Avoid any potential conflicts with the person filing the restraining order
- Recruit witnesses who can speak for your innocence
- Note any inconsistencies in the petitioner’s claims or behaviors
- Cite your clean criminal record
- Cite the alleged victim’s medical records as evidence that you did not commit any act of violence against him or her
Don’t wait to contact Sanford Horowitz to ensure that your legal rights are protected. Call now: (805) 749-5670
Filing a Restraining Order
If you feel unsafe, you should file a restraining order against the person who has wronged you. When you explain your situation to law enforcement, you must provide details and proof justifying your need for the restraining order. You should take note of any incidents where you have been stalked, abused, or threatened to increase the chances of having your petition granted, as the court will need evidence to determine whether or not your safety is at risk.
But if you are not a victim of domestic violence or stalking, you can choose to file a civil harassment restraining order against a person such as a neighbor who regularly harasses you.
Whether you’re looking to filing a domestic violence restraining order or a civil harassment court order, Santa Barbara County defense attorney Sanford Horowitz Criminal Defense, P.C. knows the law and the best strategies for your defense. We have extensive experience representing clients throughout the Lompoc area and want to help you understand the charges you are facing as well as what your rights are under the law.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation about your case, call (805) 749-5670 or fill out this contact form.
The Right Firm Makes a Difference
Why Clients Choose Us
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You are our number one priority in and out of the courtroom.
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Work with an experienced former prosecutor who knows both sides.
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Criminal defense provided by a Spanish-speaking team.
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Talk through all of your legal options during a free consultation.
What Clients Are Saying
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A former prosecutor, Sandy is a skilled litigator who understands both sides of the criminal justice system, which is a tremendous asset. While we hope never to be in a similar situation again, we can recommend Sandy without hesitation.- Ann S.
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A great relief and reassurance to anyone potentially facing criminal charges.- S.A.
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To say that Horowitz is a great lawyer is an understatement. I would highly recommend him to anyone dealing with a legal issue.- Haley S.
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In addition to being highly intelligent and professional, he is incredibly empathetic and kind, which helps when dealing with life’s unpleasant situations.- Eli S.