If you're dealing with a restraining order in New Jersey, you probably have some questions about what effect it will have on your life. Whether you are the one who filed for the restraining order or the one who the order was filed against, it's changed the way that you go about your daily life. One question you may be wondering about is whether or not the restraining order will be a part of the public record and how that will affect your life.

What is a restraining order?

A restraining order in New Jersey, also referred to as a “protection from abuse” order (PFA) in other jurisdictions, such as Pennsylvania, is an order issued by a court to provide protection to a person who is being abused or is in danger of being abused by another person. The respondent is ordered to withhold from contacting, harassing, stalking, threatening, or intimidating the petitioner. Violating a restraining order can result in punishments that include fines, jail time, and more restricted freedoms.

Are restraining orders on the public record?

Restraining orders are considered public records in New Jersey, so they can be found online if someone searches the Domestic Violence Central Registry. Once the court orders a final restraining order (FRO), the order will be entered into the Registry. If someone does a general background check, they may not find the record, but people doing deeper records searches may be easily able to find the order.

How does having a restraining order against you affect your life?

If you have a restraining order against you, it can affect your day-to-day life in a number of ways. First, you may find it difficult to go about your usual activities, as you may be worried about coming into contact with the petitioner. This can make it difficult to go to work or school or to take care of your usual responsibilities. If the restraining order becomes public knowledge, you may be worried about how the order may affect your career and personal relationships. Even if a restraining order is not a criminal order, the mere presence of one can negatively affect you in many different areas of your life.

How can filing a restraining order against someone else affect your life?

If you are considering filing a restraining order against someone, it is important to understand the potential impacts on your day-to-day life. A restraining order can prevent the respondent from coming into contact with you in any way, which can make it difficult to go about your normal routine. For example, if the respondent lives nearby, you may feel unsafe going to your own home or even walking outside. Additionally, a restraining order can affect your relationship with other people, such as friends and family members who live close to the respondent. They may feel uncomfortable around the respondent or worried that they will also become a victim of violence. Overall, filing a restraining order can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. If you are considering taking this step, it is important to speak with an attorney who can help you weigh your options and understand the possible consequences.

Speak With an Attorney

Restraining orders can be very stressful, whether you're filing a restraining order against someone or have one filed against you. Attorney Joseph D. Lento and the experienced team at the Lento Law Firm have spent years helping people deal with restraining orders, and they're ready to help you with any questions or issues that you have.

Contact the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 so that they can help you with any questions you have regarding restraining orders, as well as any other issues you may have.