Protections You Can Get in a Restraining Order

 Posted on February 05, 2025 in Family Law

If you have been targeted by family violence, a protective order can provide you with necessary relief. A judge can grant a temporary restraining order based solely on your testimony. However, if you want long-term protection from your abuser, you will have to attend a court hearing and present evidence to support your case.

During this sensitive time, a Texas family law attorney can provide you with legal guidance and advocacy. At Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC, we have over four decades of experience in issues of family law, including protective orders. When you work with us, we will do everything in our power to shield you from domestic violence.

Prohibiting Contact and Communication

If a judge grants a protective order, your abuser will be prohibited from threatening or harassing you or other persons protected in the order. Depending on the judge’s decision, your abuser could be barred from making any contact at all without an attorney.

As a measure against stalking, a protective order can also prevent your abuser from going near your workplace, school, or home. Similarly, your abuser will be barred from tracking you without your consent, using AirTags for example. A family law attorney at Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC can help you enforce the terms of a protective order for your peace of mind.

Revoking Gun Ownership

In Texas, anyone with a protective order against him or her will be prohibited from owning a gun. The only exception to this rule is if the person in question belongs to law enforcement.

As long as the order is in effect, your abuser will be barred from possessing a firearm. If your abuser is caught with a gun during an ongoing protective order, he or she will face criminal prosecution. Under Texas law, this is treated as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail.

An abuser with a deadly weapon in his or her possession is dangerous. Our attorneys are ready to take legal action for any violation of a protective order.

Exclusive Possession of a Residence

If you and your abuser share a residence, a judge can order your abuser to vacate the property. This may only be enforced in the following situations:

• You share the property with your abuser

• You have sole ownership of the property

• Your abuser has sole ownership of the property, but pays you alimony or child support

Additionally, a protective order can bar your abuser from removing your child from the household without your consent. At Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC, our family law attorneys can advocate for your right to security and a safe household, making sure that your concerns are heard in court.

Meet With an Austin, TX Family Law Attorney

Domestic violence is often deeply traumatizing. Anyone seeking a protective order needs to be cautious, as some abusers may lash out after being given notice of a court order. At Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC, our Travis County, TX family violence lawyers can help you build a strong case for a final protective order. To schedule a consultation, call our offices at 512-610-6199 today.