Experienced Domestic Violence Attorneys in Greensboro and Durham NC
If you or your family are experiencing domestic violence, abuse, or harassment, you are not alone and help is available. Taking the first step can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face this situation by yourself.
At the Law Office of Stephen E. Robertson, PLLC, our domestic violence attorneys in Greensboro and Durham provide compassionate guidance and strong legal advocacy for individuals seeking protection from abuse. We help clients understand their rights, navigate the court process, and take meaningful steps to regain safety and control.
Our priority is helping you secure protection as quickly and effectively as possible.
Understanding Domestic Violence Protection in North Carolina
North Carolina law provides specific legal protections for victims of domestic violence. These protections are designed to stop abuse, prevent further harm, and create physical and emotional distance between victims and their abusers.
One of the most important tools available is a Domestic Violence Protective Order, commonly referred to as a 50-B Protective Order.
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Protection in Greensboro and Durham NC
Domestic violence includes physical harm, threats of harm, harassment, stalking, sexual offenses, and actions that place someone in fear of serious bodily injury by a person with whom they have a qualifying relationship.
In emergency situations, a judge may issue a temporary protective order the same day you file. A full court hearing is typically scheduled within ten days.
You are not required to have a lawyer, but working with a domestic violence attorney can help ensure paperwork is filed correctly, evidence is presented effectively, and your rights are protected at the hearing.
Violating a protective order is a criminal offense. The abuser may be arrested, jailed, and held in contempt of court.
A final 50-B Protective Order may last up to one year and can sometimes be renewed depending on the circumstances.
Yes. A judge may include temporary custody or visitation provisions if children are involved and safety concerns exist.
A temporary protective order provides immediate, short-term protection. A final protective order is issued after a hearing and lasts longer.
No. You do not need to file for divorce to obtain a protective order. Protective orders are available regardless of marital status.
What Is a 50-B Protective Order?
In North Carolina, a victim of domestic violence may obtain protection through petitioning for a restraining order against their attacker. This is known as a 50-B Protective Order. When granted, such an order requires the abuse to keep their distance from the victim. Should the abuser violate the order, they may be held in contempt of court and put in jail.
To file for a 50-B Protective Order, one must submit a Complaint and Motion for Domestic Violence Protective Order to the county courthouse where he or she resides. The petitioner must serve the defendant with notice of the action along with a court summons. Proof of service must be filed with the Clerk of Court. The parties will need to attend a hearing before a District Court Judge approximately 10 days from the date the Complaint was filed.
Who Can Request a 50-B Protective Order
A victim of domestic violence may request a 50-B Protective Order against a current or former spouse, someone they live with or previously lived with, someone they have a child with, or someone they are in or were in a dating relationship with.
Domestic violence can include physical harm, threats, harassment, stalking, sexual offenses, and placing someone in fear of serious bodily injury.
How to File for a 50-B Protective Order in Greensboro or Durham
To request a 50-B Protective Order, a victim must file a Complaint and Motion for Domestic Violence Protective Order in the county courthouse where they live. The defendant must be served with notice of the action and a court summons. Proof of service must be filed with the Clerk of Court.
After filing, both parties are required to attend a hearing before a District Court Judge. This hearing typically takes place within approximately ten days of filing the complaint.
At the hearing, the judge will review evidence and testimony to determine whether a protective order should be granted and for how long.
Temporary Protective Orders and Emergency Protection
If you or your loved ones are in immediate danger, the court may issue a temporary protective order known as an ex parte order. Ex parte means the judge may grant the order without the abuser being present.
A temporary protective order is generally valid for up to ten days and provides immediate protection until a full court hearing can be held.
When deciding whether to issue a temporary protective order, a judge may consider factors such as whether the defendant attempted or caused bodily injury, threatened serious harm, used or threatened to use a weapon, committed a sexual offense, or placed the victim in fear of continued harassment or violence.
Our Greensboro and Durham domestic violence attorneys can help you request emergency protection and prepare for the follow-up hearing.
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Divorce from Bed and Board in Abusive Situations
In some cases, victims of domestic violence want to pursue divorce but face legal obstacles. North Carolina requires spouses to live separately for at least one year before filing for an absolute divorce.
If an abusive spouse refuses to leave the home, a victim may seek a legal remedy known as divorce from bed and board. While this is not a final divorce, it is a court-ordered separation that can force the abusive spouse to leave the marital residence.
Divorce from bed and board can provide immediate protection while also starting the separation period required for divorce.
How Our Greensboro and Durham Domestic Violence Attorneys Can Help
Navigating domestic violence cases can be emotionally and legally complex. Our attorneys provide steady guidance throughout the process and help clients take decisive action.
We assist with preparing and filing protective order paperwork, representing clients at hearings, gathering evidence, and advocating for safety-focused outcomes. We also help clients understand related legal issues such as custody, separation, and housing concerns.
Our goal is to help you move forward safely and confidently.
Why Choose the Law Office of Stephen E. Robertson, PLLC
- Results you can count on. We take every case seriously and work diligently to protect our clients.
- Compassionate counsel. We understand the sensitive nature of domestic violence cases and approach each situation with care and respect.
- Over twenty years of experience. Our firm has extensive experience handling domestic violence and family law matters in North Carolina.
- Board certified representation. Stephen E. Robertson is a Board Certified Attorney, providing an added level of credibility and experience.
Speak With a Domestic Violence Attorney in Greensboro or Durham NC
If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, reaching out for help is a powerful first step. Our domestic violence attorneys are here to listen, support you, and help you pursue the protection you deserve.
Contact the Law Office of Stephen E. Robertson, PLLC today to discuss your options and take steps toward safety in Greensboro or Durham, North Carolina.