Under New Jersey law, domestic violence is a crime that occurs within a family unit or household, between former members of a household, or between one dating partner and another. Violence at the hands of a family member or other loved one is a traumatizing and distressing experience, and fleeing domestic violence is often one of the most dangerous times of a survivor's life.

When forming an exit plan from a violent situation, you should consider a restraining order for criminal trespass. New Jersey allows survivors to file for a restraining order if a person they are dating, current or former spouse, co-parent, or household member indicates that they could escalate their behavior to dangerous levels. These actions are called predictive acts of violence and can include threats, harassment, stalking, theft, property damage, and kidnapping.

Bergen County domestic violence survivor advocacy groups urge forming an exit plan before predictive acts of violence become more dangerous, given the sharp increase in domestic violence-related deaths in the area. The Lento Law Firm's Family Law Team is also here to support you with your exit plan. Call us at 888-535-3686 or send us a message online.

90% of Murders in Bergen County From Domestic Violence

As Patch.com reports, 90% of murders in Bergen County are due to domestic violence. Bergen County, the fifth wealthiest county in New Jersey, saw a rash of domestic violence deaths in 2023 and 2024, with two notable instances of local teachers murdered by their partners. While intimate partner violence is the most well-known type of domestic violence, it is not the sole contributor to Bergen County's murder statistics for domestic violence: a Cresskill real estate broker was murdered by her stepson.

The Center for Home and Safety, an organization in Bergen County providing legal assistance, temporary housing, and additional support for survivors of domestic violence and their children, plans to use the proceeds from a 3k walk to increase their assistance to survivors. The Center assists their clients with forming exit plans in case the violence escalates. In 2024, they helped over 1,600 survivors and their children safely flee violent households.

The Lento Law Firm Can Help Bergen County Domestic Violence Survivors

Bergen County is the fifth-wealthiest county in New Jersey. Domestic violence occurs in every income bracket and is not solely in the realm of lower socioeconomic classes. Even if you or a loved one has financial means, you can still unexpectedly find yourself in a dangerous situation with a partner, family member, or former partner. If the aggressor has plenty of their own resources, they may be able to complicate your exit plan.

Domestic violence can be a shameful and isolating experience, which makes leaving more difficult. The Lento Law Firm can help you or your loved one experiencing domestic violence. We prioritize your safety and understand the risks that come with fleeing a dangerous situation. We can assist you with filing restraining orders, represent you in New Jersey family court, submit legal documents on your behalf, and support your efforts to flee safely.

Contact the Family Law Team at the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or complete our online intake form to speak to one of our experienced attorneys and learn more about your rights as a domestic violence survivor.