Domestic Violence Attorneys in Torrington
Domestic violence issues are extremely sensitive, with complicated emotions involved. At The Law Offices of Conti, Levy, Salerno & Goodrich, LLC, we are uniquely situated to undertake cases involving domestic violence or abuse. We are both a family law and a criminal defense firm. Given this, we have the experience to represent both victims of abuse and those facing accusations.
The Importance Of Seeking A Protective Or Restraining Order
Seeking a protective order is often the first step to take action on domestic violence. While such orders cannot guarantee the violence will stop, failure to comply with such orders is a criminal offense. In Connecticut, if you have experienced ongoing threats of physical abuse by a family or household member, you can request a:
- Restraining order: This civil action does not require the arrest of the accused aggressor and can last up to one year, or however long the court deems necessary.
- Protective order: This order is pursued in cases where the aggressor was arrested for certain crimes. It typically remains in force while the criminal case proceeds.
- Criminal protective order: This order is pursued when the aggressor was convicted of certain crimes. It can stay in force for as long as the court deems necessary.
Each order bars the aggressor from physically harming, assaulting, attacking or entering the home of the victim in any way. They also extend to protect minor children and animals of the victim.
How We Can Help You Build Your Domestic Abuse Case In Torrington
When you are living through domestic abuse, taking legal action can feel like one of the most difficult things you can do. You may not know what evidence you need, what to say or where to even begin. From gathering evidence to representing you in court, we are with you every step of the way. Here is what that looks like:
Step 1: Secure Your Digital Footprint
Before you take any legal steps, make sure your devices and accounts are secure. Here are a few practical ways to do that:
- Use a safety device: Avoid storing anything on shared devices or accounts that your abuser can access. A public library computer or a trusted friend’s device can be a safer option.
- Create a private email account: Set up a separate, secure email address that only you can access. Use it to communicate with your attorney and store important information.
- Turn off cloud syncing: Disable automatic photo and message syncing to any shared family accounts or devices.
- Strengthen your passwords: Use strong passwords that are not easy to guess and enable two-factor authentication on a device only you control.
Taking these steps early helps protect both your privacy and your case.
Step 2: Document Physical Injuries And Property Damage
Take clear photos of any visible injuries like bruises, cuts or marks, and make sure to include the date and time. Do the same for any damaged property. If you seek medical attention, keep copies of all records and reports because these can serve as powerful evidence in your case.
Step 3: Preserve Electronic Communications
Text messages, emails, voicemails and social media messages can all serve as critical evidence. If your abuser has sent you threatening or harassing messages, do not delete them. Instead, take screenshots of any relevant conversations and make sure to capture the full thread, not just individual messages, so that the context is clear. If you have received threatening voicemails, back them up to a safe and private location before they are deleted or expire. You can also export full message logs from many messaging apps to provide a more complete record than screenshots alone.
Step 4: Maintain A Safe, Detailed Abuse Journal
Keeping a private journal of every incident can be one of the most valuable things you do for your case. For each entry, record the date, time and location of what happened, along with a detailed account in your own words. Note any witnesses who were present and document how the incident affected you physically and emotionally. If police were contacted, record the officers’ names and badge numbers, and keep copies of any reports. Store your journal somewhere your abuser cannot access or use a password-protected account.
Building a strong domestic abuse case takes time and the right support. We understand how much courage it takes to get to this point, and we are here to make the process as clear and manageable for you and your family.
How An Attorney Can Assist In Pursuing Action
Choosing to come forward and pursue any sort of action against a family member is an extremely difficult and frightening decision. Our attorneys have decades of experience in undertaking such cases and approach each situation with the compassion, personalized attention and advocacy that you need.
Defense Against Those Accused Of Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, false accusations of domestic violence do occur. This can be especially prevalent in the middle of a contentious divorce proceeding or custody dispute. Your reputation and rights are all at stake in such cases. It is crucial to contact a lawyer as soon as possible and not to contact the victim. By carefully examining the evidence and case against you, we will fight for your rights.
Dedicated Guidance When Much Is At Stake
Our lawyers can provide skilled representation through a challenging time. We offer free initial consultations at our office in Torrington. Get in contact with us by calling 860-866-4637 or emailing us.