It’s generally advisable to document interactions in any legal situation, including domestic violence cases. Keeping a record of relevant information can be important for your defense or to support your case. Here are some general tips: Record Details: Note dates, times, locations, and a detailed description of each interaction or incident. Witness Information: If there…
While the alleged victim’s desire to drop charges may have an impact on a case, the decision to pursue or drop charges ultimately lies with the prosecuting attorney and the State, not the victim directly. In New Jersey, criminal cases are typically prosecuted by the State, not the individual victim. If an alleged victim expresses…
In cases of alleged domestic violence, it’s generally not advisable to reach out to the alleged victim directly without the guidance of legal counsel. In fact, if there is a temporary or final restraining order in place, it is prohibited to reach out to the alleged victim. Doing so could potentially complicate matters, and it…
What Evidence is Needed to Defend Against Domestic Violence Allegations in New Jersey? If you are facing such allegations, it is crucial to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law or domestic violence cases in New Jersey. At Ziegler Law, we can provide you with legal advice tailored to your specific situation. While…
Domestic violence law is set to change at the beginning of 2024. On July 24, 2023, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the Victim’s Assistance and Survivor Protection Act, or VASPA, into effect after the law passed unanimously through State Legislature. VASPA will expand protections to those who were previously unprotected by the Prevention of…
ZRE’s Criminal Defense Attorney Jason LeBoeuf appeared on NBC New York to speak about a no contact order for a Newark homeowner who is still legally battling a man who broke into her home claiming ownership. To view the full story please click here!
In New Jersey, victims of domestic violence are afforded protections under the New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act (N.J.S.A. 2C:15-19; hereinafter, “PDVA”). Victims seeking protection under the PDVA must have a certain relationship with the alleged perpetrator of domestic violence, which certain relationships include without limitation spouses, household members (or former household members), co-parents…
In a case of first impression, the Appellate Division recently addressed how to define a “dating relationship” under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act (the Act) in today’s day and age. While it may not be surprising to those currently on the dating scene, the Appellate Division held that the exchange of countless (nearly 1300)…
As a certified criminal trial attorney with close to 18 years of experience defending the criminally-accused, I am often called upon to prosecute or uphold restraining orders. The outcome of a restraining order hearing can have a monumental impact on the lives of both the alleged victim and the accused. For the alleged victim of…
Live-in caretakers can be considered household members under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act Some might argue that there is no relationship more vulnerable than the relationship a parent has with the person who cares for his/her children regularly. I would agree, for a lot of reasons. But when we are hiring people to care…