Minneapolis Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic Violence Attorney in Minneapolis, MN

Domestic violence cases are some of the hardest possible cases to deal with. When harm occurs within your own home, it can be difficult to navigate the situation with the attention and knowledge required. That’s when getting aid from a Minneapolis domestic violence lawyer can be the most helpful.

About Us

At CC&S Attorneys at Law, we have over four decades of experience in family law and advocating for our clients. Whether you’re a victim looking for protection or a parent defending against a claim, our resources can help you. Located less than two miles from the Mississippi River, our office is ready to support you in your case.

Reasons Domestic Violence Cases Are Initiated in Minneapolis

Domestic violence is, unfortunately, a common occurrence. Nationally, approximately 10 million people are affected by domestic violence every year. If you’re facing such a difficult situation, know that you are not alone, and you have options.

Minnesota’s domestic violence laws officially define domestic abuse as any of the following actions:

1. Physical harm, bodily injury, or assault
2. Causing fear of imminent harm
3. Criminal sexual conduct, sexual extortion, terroristic threats, or interfering with an emergency call

To qualify as domestic abuse, these actions must be committed by a family or household member against another family or household member. A household or family member does not always mean someone you are married to. It can also encompass anyone related to you by blood, anyone you currently or formerly live with, the parent of your child, or someone you are in a romantic relationship with.

Understanding Orders for Protection in Minneapolis

When someone needs protection from potential harm due to domestic abuse, they can file a petition for relief from the courts, which can issue an order of protection. For Minneapolis and the rest of Hennepin County, this is handled at the Family Justice Center on 110 South 4th St., Suite 125.

A full order of protection will require a hearing within 14 days. This type of order, also called a restraining order, can prevent the defendant from coming near the household, restrict their custody or parenting time, award the alleged victim possession of pets, and offer other protections.

In some cases, a victim of abuse can also be granted an ex parte order, which may not require a hearing. This order can offer many of the same protections, but it expires after a set amount of time, determined by the court. An ex parte order can be issued for immediate relief while a hearing for a full order is being arranged.

Requesting orders of protection, or petitioning against them, can be aided by an experienced attorney. It’s a good idea to hire a domestic violence lawyer to help you approach the process and understand what evidence you might need and what your options are.

The Outcomes of Domestic Violence Charges in Minneapolis

For victims of domestic violence as well as those charged, these cases can be a life-changing event. Many programs exist to help victims. In just a 24-hour period in 2024, such programs surveyed in Minnesota helped 1,561 victims in different ways.

Depending on the results and specifics of cases, domestic violence charges can lead to loss of custody of children, restricted access to a home or previous family dwelling, dissolution of marriage, and more. This doesn’t even include the myriad personal and emotional difficulties that come with facing these cases.

Why You Should Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence cases can create emotional turbulence for everyone involved. In a time when you’re worried about protecting yourself, your family, and your rights, it can be difficult to keep everything together. Regardless, courts still require legal processes to be followed correctly.

A compassionate Minneapolis domestic violence lawyer from CC&S Attorneys at Law can help you tackle your case. Examples of ways we might be able to assist include:

• Gathering evidence for a hearing
• Advocating for your rights and safety
• Walking you through the legal process so you know what to expect
• Representing you in court so you have an added layer of protection

FAQs

Why Do Most Domestic Violence Cases Get Dismissed?

Many domestic violence cases get dismissed because the alleged victim drops the charges or stops cooperating with the case. Other causes for dismissal can include failing to take legal action on time, a lack of available evidence, or being unable to prove the required relationship or alleged act. Timely action and legal aid from an attorney can help meet the requirements for these cases.

What Qualifies as Domestic Abuse in Minnesota?

As defined in MN Statute § 518B.01(2)(a), domestic abuse in Minnesota constitutes specific actions committed against a family or household member by another family or household member. These actions include causing bodily injury or physical harm, inflicting fear of immediate physical harm, and criminal sexual conduct or sexual coercion.

Can I File a Claim for Emotional Distress in Minneapolis?

Yes, you can file a claim for emotional distress in Minneapolis. These cases rely on a lot of personal evidence and can be challenging to prove. To determine if filing a claim would be right for you, consult with a Minneapolis domestic violence attorney. They can also advise you on how to approach the process.

Do You Need a Lawyer for a Domestic Violence Case in Minneapolis?

You are not required to have a lawyer for a domestic violence case in Minneapolis, but you may need one, and it’s good to have the extra legal guidance. If you’re facing domestic violence charges, battling custody in family court, or otherwise dealing with a complex legal case, a domestic violence lawyer can be an invaluable resource.

Don’t Hesitate to Contact CC&S Attorneys at Law

If you’re facing a domestic violence case, getting help sooner rather than later is essential. In some cases, like with orders of protection, you may only have two weeks to prepare for a hearing. It’s important to go into a case knowing your rights and how you can advocate for yourself.

The experienced team at CC&S Attorneys at Law is familiar with many aspects of family law. We are dedicated to advocating for you and supporting you during a difficult time. Contact us now to find out how we might be able to help you.