A recently released documentary, TikTok Star Murders, gives a chilling account of the circumstances—including many episodes of domestic violence—that led up to a double homicide committed in 2021 by popular TikTok creator Ali Abulaban, who was recently found guilty of killing his estranged wife, Ana Abulaban, and her companion, Rayburn Barron. This tragic story is yet another reminder that domestic violence—in all its forms—must be responded to with all legal remedies available, including restraining orders.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence in New Jersey, the Family Law Team at the Lento Law Firm can help you obtain a restraining order and advise you on your other legal options. Call the experienced legal professionals at Lento Law Firm Family Law Team at 888.535.3686 or use our online contact form to tell us about your case.

Heed the Warning Signs of Domestic Violence and Get Out Now

While physical or sexual assault or rape are obvious signs of domestic violence, the definition of domestic violence in New Jersey includes more than a dozen other crimes, many of which do not include physical harm. Other crimes in the New Jersey definition of domestic violence include kidnapping, criminal mischief, criminal trespassing, harassment, lewdness, terroristic threats, and burglary. Abusive behavior that begins with the destruction of your property or stalking often escalates into physical violence.

Domestic abusers often become more violent and volatile if their victim tries to end the relationship. Leaving an abusive relationship requires careful planning and use of all legal tools available, including the restraining order.

How Victims of Domestic Violence in New Jersey Can Obtain a Restraining Order

For a crime to be considered domestic violence, the victim and perpetrator must have or have had an intimate partner relationship, such as marriage or cohabitation, or be parents or expectant parents of a child.

To obtain a restraining order, the victim must show evidence, such as their own detailed account, threatening messages from the perpetrator, or witness testimony, of at least one incident of domestic violence.

Typically, the victim seeks a temporary restraining order (TRO) at a courthouse or police department. If the court issues the TRO, they also schedule a final restraining order (FRO) hearing within ten days, and the police department serves the defendant (perpetrator).

The Lento Law Firm Can Help Domestic Violence Victims

If you are a victim of domestic violence, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible. The Family Law Team at the Lento Law Firm can advise on your options, and they can help you obtain a restraining order. Call the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team today at 888.535.3686 or use the contact form on our website to tell us about your case.