Domestic Violence Attorney Serving Franklin, Tennessee

Domestic violence is a serious crime that can profoundly impact you and your family. Whether physical or emotional in nature, domestic violence can often lead to feelings of uncertainty and overwhelm about your options. While various forms of assistance are available, fear and hesitation often prevent victims from seeking help.

Sometimes, domestic violence cases can be resolved through civil means. However, for others, it may be necessary to pursue legal action to ensure your safety. Deciding to pursue legal action against a family member is not easy, but an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

At Middle Tennessee Family Law, we understand the challenges of facing domestic violence and pursuing legal action. With over a decade of experience, we can help you understand your rights, guide you through the process, and empower you to move forward with confidence.

Whether you need assistance with filing orders of protection, seeking custody arrangements, or advocating for your safety, we strive to provide compassionate, client-focused representation tailored to your needs. Located in Franklin, Tennessee, we serve clients in Murfreesboro, Nashville, and the greater Middle Tennessee area. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

What Is Domestic Violence

Domestic violence refers to a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another partner. Domestic violence is not limited to physical harm; it also encompasses emotional, sexual, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions to influence another person within a household or relationship.

Under Tennessee law, domestic violence includes any form of coercive control committed by a spouse, partner, family member, or someone you share a close relationship with. Some common signs of domestic abuse include, but are not limited to, the following.

• Physical harm, such as hitting, slapping, or any form of violence that results in injury. 

• Verbal abuse, including spoken threats or belittling language that is intended to harm your mental health or self-esteem. 

• Financial control, where one party restricts your financial resources or uses control of your money to exert power. 

• Stalking or harassment, including repeated unwanted contact or surveillance. 

• Coercive control, such as isolating a victim from friends and family. 

Domestic violence cases require clear and focused legal action. These situations often impact more than just the victim, often influencing children, extended family members, and even the victim's living or working arrangements. At Middle Tennessee Family Law, we are committed to working with you to identify solutions that prioritize your immediate safety and promote your long-term well-being. 

Domestic Violence Laws in Tennessee 

Tennessee has strict laws in place to protect victims of domestic violence and hold offenders accountable. Abuse may not always be evident to those experiencing it. However, if you suspect you are a victim of domestic violence, it's important to seek help sooner rather than later. Some key laws and regulations to be aware of include the following.

• Orders of protection: An Order of Protection is a critical tool that legally prohibits the abuser from contacting, harassing, stalking, or approaching you. Tennessee law allows victims to file for a temporary order of protection for immediate relief while waiting for a hearing to determine a long-term solution.
  

• Domestic assault: Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-111, domestic assault is a criminal offense that can result in significant penalties, including jail time, fines, and ongoing legal consequences. These charges apply to acts of violence committed by those with personal relationships to the victim, such as spouses, co-parents, or co-residents.
  

• Firearm restrictions: Tennessee laws include provisions for firearm restrictions on those convicted of domestic violence crimes or those found in violation of a protective order. This measure serves to enhance the safety of domestic violence victims by limiting access to weapons in volatile situations.  

Child Custody and Domestic Violence

In families or household arrangements where children are involved, domestic violence charges often have a direct impact on child custody proceedings. In Tennessee, the courts will prioritize the safety of any children involved and consider domestic abuse or a parent's history of violence when determining custody arrangements.  

If a parent is determined to have a history of violence, their custodial rights can be limited or restricted by the court. At Middle Tennessee Family Law, our experienced family law attorney is skilled in advocating for custody arrangements to help prioritize the safety and well-being of you and your children.  

How We Can Help You  

At Middle Tennessee Family Law, we take a hands-on approach to every case. From the initial consultation to reaching a settlement or court determination, we strive to provide direct, clear answers and actionable solutions to every client.  Some of the ways our attorney can help victims of domestic violence include the following.

• We can help you obtain protective orders (both temporary and extended). 

• We can represent your interests in custody and divorce proceedings impacted by domestic violence or abuse.

• We can guide you through criminal procedures if you wish to press charges. 

• We can advocate for your rights in negotiations or in court when needed. 

If you have been a victim of domestic violence, it's important to know you have legal support and recourse. At our firm, our goal is to empower you to make informed and confident decisions to protect your personal safety and the well-being of your children and family.