Westport Domestic Violence Lawyer

Westport, CT Domestic Violence Attorney

When domestic violence enters the picture, whether you are the victim seeking protection or the accused facing serious charges, your life can change overnight. A Westport domestic violence lawyer at Reich & Truax, PLLC, understands how emotionally and legally overwhelming these cases can be. From protective orders to criminal proceedings and custody concerns, we provide calm, strategic guidance to help you move forward safely and with confidence.

Located in Westport, Connecticut, our firm handles domestic violence matters in both the Stamford Superior Court and the Bridgeport Superior Court, depending on jurisdiction. With decades of experience in complex family and criminal law, we’re equipped to handle the most sensitive cases with discretion and determination.

schedule a consultation

Call For A Consultation203-254-9877

Why Choose Us?

At Reich & Truax, PLLC, we bring a thoughtful and experienced approach to every domestic violence matter we handle. We understand that these situations are deeply personal and often emotionally charged. You deserve a legal team that listens carefully, responds promptly, and fights fiercely for your rights, whether you are seeking protection or defending yourself against accusations.

We are deeply familiar with both Stamford and Bridgeport Superior Courts, which gives us the local insight needed to move your case forward efficiently and effectively.

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence refers to violent behavior from one individual to another who has some type of domestic relationship. Typically, these relationships include spouses, ex-spouses, partners, boyfriends, girlfriends, two individuals who share a child, roommates, parents and children, and other family members (such as siblings).

Domestic violence usually includes various types of abusive behaviors, including:

• Physical abuse, such as hitting, pushing, or slapping
• Sexual abuse, such as rape (even if the two are married), forcing sex, or coercing a partner to perform sexual acts they do not want to do
• Emotional abuse, such as constant criticisms and name-calling
• Psychological abuse, including causing fear in the alleged victim, threatening to hurt their loved ones, or forcible isolation
• Financial abuse, such as restricting their access to finances or misusing their resources, usually without their knowledge or consent

According to CT Mirror, 13.9% of men and 23.2% of women have experienced some form of violence at the hands of an intimate partner in Connecticut. Unfortunately, each year, approximately 14 people lose their lives in domestic violence situations in the state, with 87% of these victims being women.

These numbers reflect more than just data. They represent real people facing urgent, high-stakes decisions. Whether you are seeking protection or defending against an accusation, legal support can make all the difference.

The Domestic Violence Legal Process in Westport

In many domestic violence cases in Westport, the process begins with a 911 call or police report. If officers find probable cause, an arrest may be made on the spot, often with a mandatory 24-hour protective order issued at the time of arraignment. The arraignment typically takes place the next business day at either Stamford or Bridgeport Superior Court, depending on where the incident occurred.

From there, your case can take several directions:

• Protective order hearing. A judge decides whether to continue, modify, or drop the order.
• Criminal charges. If the state proceeds with charges, the accused may face misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the situation.
• Family court involvement. In cases involving children or co-parenting arrangements, custody or visitation may be impacted.

Domestic Violence Protective Orders

A protective order is a document issued by the courts to protect the alleged victim from further abuse. It is an official legal document. Each state has its own terms for the types of restraining orders it issues. Connecticut recognizes three different types. These include:

• Family or civil restraining orders. These are filed by an individual seeking protection from a household member.
• Criminal protective orders. Issued automatically upon arrest for domestic violence charges.
• Standing criminal protective orders. Long-term orders that remain in effect even after a criminal case is resolved.

These orders can restrict contact, limit access to your own home, and affect child custody or visitation rights. Violating an order, even unintentionally, can lead to immediate arrest and further charges. Whether you need to obtain or fight one of these orders, we can make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities.

FAQs

Contact Reich & Truax, PLLC, Today

If you are facing a domestic violence issue in Westport, you do not have to handle this serious and sensitive matter alone. Reich & Truax, PLLC, can help you seek justice. Contact us today to get started.