Clinton Township Domestic Violence Attorneys

At the law firm of Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., we represent clients on all sides of domestic violence matters. Whether you or your children have been victims of abuse or you have been accused of some type of physical abuse, it is important that you have a reliable Shelby Township domestic violence attorney who can protect your interests.

Physical contact is not necessary in domestic violence cases. Sometimes referred to as domestic abuse or domestic assault, Michigan law recognizes claims of domestic violence when a victim is simply threatened with violence. In some cases, just the fear of harm is enough to create grounds for a domestic violence claim.

Who We Represent

When it comes to domestic violence cases, it’s important to choose a knowledgeable team to help you understand your rights and keep you protected. Here at Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., we understand the many sides to domestic violence matters. We often represent the following:  

Victims of Domestic Violence

We take swift and decisive action on behalf of victims who have been attacked or live in fear of abuse. Domestic violence victims are not limited to spouses and children. Domestic partners, boyfriends and girlfriends, parents, a person with whom the abuser shares a child, and even roommates can be victims of abuse. We help victims ensure their safety is protected.

Those Accused of Domestic Violence

If the police respond to a domestic violence call, someone will likely be removed from the home. The alleged abuser may be restricted by a protective order that forbids interaction of any kind with the alleged victim and keeps them out of the home. No matter what type of issues you may be facing or what type of outcome you are seeking, we will do everything in our power to resolve the matter in a way that is most beneficial for you.

The Basic Domestic Violence Process in Michigan

Michigan gives people several ways to seek protection and hold an abuser accountable. Knowing what to expect can take some of the uncertainty out of the road ahead. While every case moves at its own pace, most follow a general path.

Requesting a Personal Protection Order (PPO)

• You file a petition with the circuit court explaining what has happened and why you need protection.
• A judge reviews your request and may grant an ex parte PPO, which takes effect right away without the other person present, when the situation calls for immediate action.
• The other party can ask the court for a hearing to contest the order.

The Court Hearing

• If a hearing is scheduled, both sides have a chance to present their account and any supporting evidence.
• The judge decides whether to keep the PPO in place, adjust its terms, or dismiss it.
• A PPO can restrict contact, order the other person to stay away from your home or workplace, and address other safety concerns.

Criminal and Civil Tracks

• Domestic violence can lead to criminal charges brought by the prosecutor, which is separate from the civil PPO process.
• A criminal case and a family law case, such as divorce or custody, can move forward at the same time, and what happens in one can affect the other.

Enforcement and Changes Over Time

• If someone violates a PPO, you can report it, and the court can hold that person in contempt.
• PPOs have expiration dates, so you may need to ask the court to extend an order before it lapses.
• If your circumstances shift, you can request changes to the terms of an existing order.

Timelines vary, and the details depend on the facts of your case. Having an attorney prepare your paperwork and speak for you in court can make a real difference in how smoothly things go.

Why Choose Us

At Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., we understand that choosing an attorney to help you through your domestic violence case is an important decision. Our team provides compassionate support and will guide you through the process. Here’s why Michigan families choose our team:

• A family law foundation. Because domestic violence so often overlaps with divorce and custody, our background lets us see the full picture and protect your interests across every related issue.
• Decades of combined experience. We have appeared in Michigan courts many times and know how local judges and procedures work.
• A personalized plan. We shape our strategy around your safety, your children, and your goals, not around a template.
• Straight answers. We explain your options in language you can actually use, and we tell you honestly where things stand.
• Steady communication. You will know who is handling your case and how to reach us when questions come up.

Our approach starts with a conversation. We learn your story, review your documents, and outline the choices in front of you. From there, we handle the filings, court appearances, and negotiations so you can put your energy toward yourself and your family.

Talk to our Macomb County Attorneys Today

Contact our Clinton Township family law office today to discuss your domestic violence case with a lawyer. We offer a free initial consultation to each client. You can reach us by phone or via our online contact form to get started.

FAQs About Domestic Violence Cases in Michigan