What to Do After Getting a Restraining Order

Although a restraining order in Georgia can help protect vulnerable people, some continue to feel anxious even after this protection is granted. What should you do after a judge issues your restraining order? What steps do you need to take, and how do you make the most of your newfound protection? These are common questions for families in Georgia, and you can ask them during a meeting with an experienced restraining order lawyer in Atlanta.

Find a Safe Place to Live 

In some cases, you can stay with your loved ones in the family residence after your restraining order has been granted. In other situations, it might make more sense to move out. Whatever the case may be, one of your first priorities should be to find a safe, reliable place to live. Fortunately, a restraining order can facilitate support payments – allowing you to cover rent, mortgage payments, and other living costs.

If you need to pursue support from your ex after a restraining order, contact an experienced family law attorney. In addition, various organizations may have shelters for women fleeing from domestic violence. You might be able to stay in one of these shelters temporarily until you determine where to live for the foreseeable future.

Prioritize Your Safety 

Even though you have been granted a restraining order, you still need to prioritize your safety. Some exes and abusers might try to contact you or follow you. Despite the fact that they face criminal charges for doing so, abusers may violate their restraining orders and pose safety risks to you and your loved ones.

Fortunately, you can protect yourself with a few easy steps. First and foremost, you might want to be careful about what you post online. Some posts can be geotagged, and others may be timestamped. This could give an abuser all the information they need to track you down. If you’re not sure whether your phone is being tracked by your ex, contact a professional and determine how to make your future movements “invisible.”

Consider Taking Your First Steps Toward Divorce 

After you take steps to improve safety and find a reliable place to live, it might be time to take your first steps toward divorce. The decision to end your marriage is not easy, but it might be best for everyone involved. There is no sense in staying in an abusive relationship – especially if your children are suffering as a result.

Find an Experienced Restraining Order Lawyer in Georgia 

If you’ve been searching for an experienced restraining order lawyer in Georgia, look no further than Kaye, Lembeck, Hitt & French. Over the years, we have guided numerous families and vulnerable people to safety with effective restraining orders. Whether you need a restraining order or you’re following up with further legal action, we can help. Our law firm also has considerable experience with divorce if you need to end your marriage. Book a consultation today to get started.

Sources: 

georgia.gov/get-protective-order

womenslaw.org/laws/ga/restraining-orders