In January 2003, a man went into his girlfriend's basement, where he found two malnourished brothers, ages four and seven. What followed captured headlines for weeks.

If you're in an abusive relationship, you do have avenues to escape. The Lento Law Firm Family Law Team can help you navigate the process of obtaining a restraining order and moving forward to the next chapter of your life. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or contact us online.

Abandoned

When found, both boys were malnourished, underweight, and covered in burn scars. After the older brother asked about his twin brother, authorities discovered the mummified body of their brother stuffed into a plastic container. The four-year-old boy spent two weeks in the hospital and the following year recovering.

The case forced an examination of New Jersey's broken foster care system. The boys had already been in the system, but when unable to find them, the agency closed their file rather than continue to search for them.

On the twentieth anniversary of their discovery, Tyrone Hill, the younger of the two brothers, decided to go public with his version of events. One reason for Hill's decision to speak out is to honor his deceased brother's memory. He also pointed out that the silver lining of their experience was the overhaul of New Jersey's child welfare system.

Hill's story is an important reminder of the physical, mental, and emotional scars that domestic abuse can cause. Leaving an abusive situation doesn't end trauma, although it often puts people in a position to get the healing and support they need to begin to heal.

Restraining Orders

For those suffering from domestic abuse or violence, a restraining order is often an important step in getting out of harm's way. While New Jersey has multiple forms of legal protection for those suffering from abuse, restraining orders are limited to intimate relationships.

Individuals may file a restraining order against one of the following people:

• A current or former spouse, including individuals in a same-sex marriage
• A domestic partner
• A current or former household member, which includes roommates
• A current or former dating partner
• A child's other parent

Individuals who want a restraining order must first file for a temporary restraining order (TRO). Individuals can file for a TRO in the country courthouse where:

• They reside
• The abuser resides
• The abuse occurred

For example, an individual resides in Monmouth County. Their former partner resides in Middlesex, and the abuse occurred in Cape May County. When filing for a TRO, the individual may file in any of these three counties.

When filing for a TRO, an individual should include:

• The relationship between them and the abuser
• Details about the abuse
• Specific concerns about why you believe you are in danger or at risk

Protect Your Life

Escaping from an abusive situation can be difficult. If you're in an abusive situation or are otherwise being put in fear for your life, contact the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team. We work with clients throughout New Jersey to help them obtain restraining orders that can help them regain control over their lives. Call us at 888-535-3686 or contact us online.