Donnellan Law, PLLC Donnellan Law, PLLC 2026-05-14T06:26:35Z https://www.dlawfirmny.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1502193/2021/05/Favicon-75x75.png On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[DIY divorce: Why cutting corners can cost you more in the long run]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47496 2026-04-21T13:48:55Z 2026-04-21T13:58:17Z What New York law expects you to understand on your own New York divides marital property under an equitable distribution standard, splitting assets based on what a court considers fair given the full picture of the marriage. Income earned during the marriage, retirement contributions, business appreciation, and joint debt all receive specific legal treatment. Self-represented filers routinely misclassify these assets, either giving up more than they owe or failing to claim what they are legally entitled to keep. New York's matrimonial courts also follow local procedural rules beyond state requirements. Courts can reject a form that looks finished. A missed deadline can delay your case by months. Pro se litigants are held to the same standard as attorneys, which means that they must adhere to the rules of evidence, procedural requirements, and local Court rules, regardless of whether they know or understand these obligations.

The mistakes that are hardest to undo

Some DIY divorce errors are inconvenient. Others can follow you for decades:
  • Skipping or incorrectly drafting a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) when dividing a, IRA, 403(b), 401(k), or pension can permanently forfeit retirement benefits you were legally entitled to receive.
  • Signing a settlement agreement without fully understanding its terms locks you in. Challenging a signed settlement agreement in New York requires a person to prove fraud, duress, or failure to disclose assets, not simply showing that you did not understand what you agreed to.
Both errors appear regularly in cases where people seek legal help to fix what a DIY filing left behind. By that point, the options are narrower and the cost is higher.

Where the savings calculation breaks down

Filing fees for an uncontested New York divorce cost at least $335. That looks manageable until a flawed settlement requires litigation, a rejected filing requires refiling, or a defective parenting plan sends you back to court. Each of those outcomes costs more than proper representation would have from the start. The savings are real only when the situation is genuinely simple: no shared property, no children, no retirement accounts, and full agreement on every term. Add any one of those factors and the math shifts fast.

What a middle-ground option looks like

Full representation is not your only alternative. Many New York family law attorneys offer limited scope arrangements, reviewing your draft agreement or handling only the retirement account order, so you pay for guidance where the stakes are highest. That targeted approach costs far less than fixing a mistake after your divorce is final. There are other cost saving approaches to divorce that can protect you from what you don’t know, such as collaborative divorce, mediation, and settlement conferences prior to starting litigation. With collaborative practice, parties agree to not litigate and come to a resolution with the help of their legal team. Each party would have an attorney, but often cases resolve faster than litigation. With mediation, neither party is represented by an attorney, but there is someone with more experience in divorce leading the discussions for resolution. In cases where everyone agrees to try to negotiate prior to filing for divorce, there are trained professionals guiding the couple to come to a resolution. With each of these methods, selection of the right attorney or practitioner is key to finding success. How Donnellan Law, PLLC can help you Our attorneys at Donnellan Law, PLLC are seasoned practitioners that can assist with portions of cases or the entire case, depending upon the needs of the client. We appreciate the desire to be cost efficient with divorce matters and work hard to keep costs to a minimum. In addition to litigation, we offer mediation and collaborative practice options. Please contact us to schedule a consultation on your divorce matter.]]> On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[3 reasons many couples file for divorce after the holidays]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47474 2026-03-05T16:07:03Z 2026-02-20T11:22:12Z Holiday pressure cooker effect When a relationship is starting to break down – or has been breaking down over time – the holidays may force couples into intense collaboration, or may reveal that collaboration is not happening in ways that it should. When communication in a relationship has already broken down, coordinating family visits, managing budgets, and buying gifts can become exhausting rather than joyful. Couples may discover that they cannot agree on basic decisions during the festivities. Perhaps one person  wanst to host extended family while the other prefers a quiet celebration. These disagreements can expose deeper incompatibilities that regular routines normally mask.

Financial strain and spending conflicts

Money disputes rank among the top reasons couples divorce. Gift expectations, travel costs, and hosting expenses create immediate financial pressure that couples cannot ignore. Disagreements about seasonal spending often reflect fundamental differences in values and priorities.

Strategic timing considerations

Many couples maintain appearances during the holidays for their children's sake or to avoid family drama. One the holidays are over, it’s important to address your marital problems with more honesty. Some key issues that you must consider include:
  • Child custody and parenting time arrangements.
  • Child support obligations based on New York's statutory guidelines.
  • Division of marital property and debts.
  • Spousal maintenance (alimony) when appropriate.
  • Health insurance coverage for dependents.
New York courts prioritize the "best interests of the child" when determining custody and visitation schedules. This standard ensures that the court's final decision supports the child's emotional and physical well-being above all else. The state also follows the equitable distribution of marital assets, which means fair but not necessarily equal division. Courts examine the marriage length, each spouse's income, and contributions to the household when making such determinations.

When holiday struggles signal deeper problems

The holidays do not create marital problems—they magnify existing ones. If a couple can barely get through a few weeks of seasonal obligations, that pattern will likely continue throughout the coming year. While there are many grounds for divorce in New York State, the most frequently used ground is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for at least six months. This ground for divorce means that there is no need to prove fault or wait for a specific incident. If the holidays confirm that there are deeper marital problems, divorce could be the right decision.]]> On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[Single-parent adoption: Breaking barriers to building families]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47476 2026-02-02T18:46:04Z 2026-02-02T18:46:04Z Unique challenges single parents may face in adoption Single-parent adoption follows the same legal rules as other adoptions in New York. However, courts and agencies often review these cases more closely when one person plans to adopt alone. They want to know how a single parent will meet a child’s daily needs, manage finances and plan for the future. Single applicants often face these common challenges:
  • Greater scrutiny during home studies: Agencies may ask detailed questions about daily routines, childcare plans and emergency support.
  • Balancing work and court requirements: Home visits, training sessions and court dates can strain schedules without another parent to assist.
  • Financial planning pressure: Courts expect steady income and realistic budgeting, which can feel stressful for one-income households.
  • Questions about long-term support: Judges may ask how a single parent plans to handle illness, travel or sudden life changes.
  • Emotional stress: Going through the process alone can feel isolating, especially for first-time parents
These hurdles do not stop adoption, but they do require planning. Legal guidance can help single parents prepare answers, organize records and avoid delays.

Opportunities available to single individuals pursuing adoption

New York law offers several paths for single adults to adopt. Domestic agency adoption and private adoption allow single parents to apply without a spouse or partner. This access gives single parents more ways to pursue adoption based on their goals and circumstances. The foster care system also welcomes single adopters. Many children waiting for adoption need permanent homes rather than traditional two-parent placements. Agencies often look for single parents who are open to adopting older children, sibling groups or children with special needs. Courts and agencies review each case on its own merits. They focus on home stability, not family structure. When applicants clearly explain childcare plans, finances and support systems, courts can move forward with greater confidence. These opportunities reflect a broader shift in how family courts approach adoption. The goal remains the same: placing children in safe, stable and permanent homes.

Moving forward with clarity and support

Single-parent adoption reflects today’s diverse families. New York law supports these adoptions when parents show stability, planning and commitment to a child’s well-being. With careful preparation and experienced legal guidance, single parents can navigate the process with fewer surprises. Adoption remains a meaningful way to build a family, one thoughtful step at a time.]]> On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[Children’s Rights in New York Family Court]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47469 2025-12-03T21:03:25Z 2025-12-03T21:03:25Z
  • Right to legal representation: Children have the right to their own lawyer in Family Court. In New York, these lawyers are called Attorneys for the Child (AFC).
  • Right to protection: There are legal safeguards in place for children in cases involving domestic violence, neglect and abuse.
  • Right to be heard: Having the right to be heard means that children can voice their opinions and wishes in court. Their choices matter in how a decision is made for their future.
    • These three rights work together to protect children during Family Court proceedings. Ensuring that these rights are upheld requires a dedicated advocate who works with the child during court proceedings. How is a child represented at Court? This is where an Attorney for the- Child (AFC) steps in. AFCs are attorneys who are appointed by an Order of a Family Court Judge in proceedings that are appearing before them. It is important to remember that AFCs are attorneys for the child or children only. They do not represent either the petitioner or respondent in a Family Court case. AFCs are also funded through the state, so their services are provided at no cost to the family. Acting as a legal bridge between the Court and the children involved in the Court proceeding, an AFC helps explain legal terms to their child clients so that they can assert their rights confidently. Sometimes, the Court will want to hold a special proceeding where the child, the Judge and the AFC will meet, often after a trial has occurred, to better understand a child’s position or key facts in a case. This does not mean that the child has a “vote at the table”, but this does give the child an opportunity to have a voice in the proceedings. The meeting is done without the petitioner, respondent or other family members and the AFC helps to safeguard the child’s privacy during this special proceeding. Protecting children’s rights and advocating for their best interests is the AFC’s primary duty. There are a lot of narratives and legal factors at play in Family Court. At the end of the day, it is the best interest of the child that is most important. An AFC helps to ensure that the Court’s understanding of the child’s best interests includes the child’s voice and wants, creating a more comprehensive picture for the Court. By understanding the rights of children in Family Court proceedings, parents, guardians, and caregivers can better advocate for children’s welfare, ensure their voice is heard, and support outcomes that protect children’s well-being.]]>         On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[Divorce and Child Custody Arrangements: The Role of Mental Health Professionals]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47457 2025-09-22T13:33:22Z 2025-09-22T06:54:37Z Changes that come with new child custody arrangements and divorce can impact everyone in the family. For children, these changes can often feel like a loss of stability. The experience may impact a child’s physical and emotional wellbeing. It is important to remember that with support from their parents and other trusted individuals in their lives most children recover from divorce and custody changes without long-term impacts. This support can include a mental health professional.  The Emotional Impact of Divorce and Child Custody Arrangements  The impact of divorce and changes to family arrangements on children varies greatly depending on age, support from parents, caregivers, and/or trusted adults, and other factors. Young children may have a hard time understanding why they need to go between two homes. They may also have worries that if their parents can stop loving each other, their parents may stop loving them. Grade school children may blame themselves for the changes, believing that they misbehaved or did something wrong to cause the changes. Adolescents may exhibit anger about the divorce or changes in child custody. They may place blame on one or both parents, potentially causing feelings of resentment. It’s important to remember that family dynamics are unique. For situations where abuse, fighting, or yelling has occurred, children may feel relieved by the separation, knowing that it could mean an end to a hostile home environment.  Research has shown that children struggle most in the first year or two after a divorce or change in custody arrangements, often experiencing distress, anger, anxiety, and possibly disbelief. They may also feel scared, confused, and frustrated. Regardless of age, gender, or culture, children may experience increased mental health issues. Divorce and changes in child custody can cause adjustment disorders (that typically resolve in a matter of months), depression, and anxiety. Children may also experience externalized problems as well, including anti-social behavior, acting out, getting in trouble, and impulse control issues. Additionally, children may experience issues in self-esteem which can lead to depression.  Emotional impacts are not only experienced by the children in these situations, but also the parents. The experience of divorce or changes to child custody and visitation can be one of the most difficult and traumatic experiences of a person’s life. Parents can experience a loss in a lifestyle that they have become accustomed to, feelings of grief about goals for the future, worries about children, loss of mutual friends, and financial changes. There may also be significant emotional impacts from the end of a relationship. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are all possible. Parents may also feel as though they have failed. Mental Health Professionals and Processing Emotional Impacts There are many benefits to seeking mental health care during divorce and in situations where there are changes in child custody and visitation. A mental health professional can provide emotional support and help cultivate stability. Therapy can be a safe space for children and parents alike to understand, express, and process the complex feelings that come with these situations, and develop tools for coping and managing stress. Mental health support can help children to adjust to new schedules, routines, and living arrangements. Working with a mental health professional can also improve communication, which helps parties to express their needs, wants and concerns more clearly. Improved communication may lead to more amicable agreements, reduce the likelihood of conflicts between parties and better conflict resolution. Therapy helps to address and highlight underlying issues and facilitate constructive discussions, which can lead to better outcomes for all parties involved. An added bonus to counseling during this process is that it may help to reduce the overall cost of litigation. Better conflict resolution means less time, money, and effort spent in court.  Mental Health Professionals and Forensic Evaluations Aside from offering emotional support and coping mechanisms for dealing with the stress and changes of a divorce or child custody arrangements, mental health professionals may also offer their services through a forensic evaluation. In New York, forensic evaluations are ordered by the court and are conducted by a mental health professional who is appointed by the court. The purpose of a forensic evaluation is to provide balanced and non-biased information and feedback about custody to the court, particularly when parents cannot come to an agreement or when there are allegations of child abuse, neglect, parental unfitness, or substance use. Typically forensic evaluations are facilitated by a psychologist or psychiatrist, but can be conducted by a social worker who has undergone the proper training. Forensic evaluations usually involve interviews with parents, children, caregivers, and other family members. Collateral sources can also be used, such as teachers and medical professionals. Forensic evaluations can help a judge make a custody decision that is in the best interest of the children. However, custody evaluations are not the final decision-making factor. In fact, forensic evaluations are not needed in every case, but they can be an important tool when the parties involved in a divorce or custody case cannot come to an agreement.  Whether providing emotional support and tools for coping and managing emotions, or offering observations to the court about what is best for the children, mental health professionals play an important role in divorce and child custody cases.  Looking for mental health support? Check with your insurance company for list of in-network providers or you can visit PsychologyToday which allows for searches for mental health support including therapists, psychiatrists, treatment centers, and support groups. Results can be filtered by specializations, insurance, in-person/online, and gender.
    At Donnellan Law, PLLC, we know that divorce is a unique and individual experience. Although divorce is common, every situation is different. Attorneys build a personal “legal roadmap” with clients which are specifically designed to address the unique and individual circumstances in areas such as child support, custody, and spousal support.  To schedule an initial consultation, visit www.dlawfirmny.com/contact.   ]]>         On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[How to spot parental alienation in a custody dispute]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47444 2025-09-12T11:48:42Z 2025-08-22T18:55:54Z Parental alienation occurs when one parent intentionally tries to damage a child’s relationship with the other parent. It’s not always loud or obvious. Sometimes, it’s subtle and persistent.  Signs of parental alienation can include:
    • A child refusing contact with one parent without a clear reason.
    • One parent speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the child.
    • A child repeating the other parent’s anger or fear.
    • Communication or visitation being blocked or delayed.
    • A child seems uncomfortable showing affection toward the parent who is being alienated.
    These signs don’t confirm alienation on their own. But when they appear together, they raise serious concerns. New York courts take parental alienation seriously because it can harm a child’s emotional development. In a situation of parental alienation, a child can experience feelings of guilt, confusion, and stress, which can lead to longer term impacts such as difficulty forming healthy relationships, low self-esteem, and emotional instability. Judges consider how each parent supports the child’s relationship with the other and may look at other factors such as the child’s behavior – particularly changes in behavior – and any signs of manipulation or coercion. These factors can affect custody decisions. From the court’s perspective, if a parent is engaging in parental alienation, the court will deem the actions by that parent as acts “inconsistent with the best interests of the children” and that these acts “raise a strong probability that the offending party is unfit to act as a custodial parent.”  It is important to note, however, that courts do not act on one-off comments. Courts look for a pattern of behavior that shows an intent to damage a child’s relationship with the other parent. Courts also look for is whether there is culpable behavior on both sides of the equation. If each side is engaging in alienating behavior, but one side is seemingly worse than another, the court will not determine that there is parental alienation occurring.  Parental alienation can be painful for both the child and the parent who is being alienated. Emotional impacts of parental alienation on the parent who is targeted can include anxiety, depression, and a sense of loss or grief. If there is evidence of parental alienation in a family, it is important to act early. Parental alienation often builds quietly, and over time, it can reshape   a child’s relationship with and perspective of their parents.  Being aware of the signs of parental alienation can help families address the issue early, protect the well-being of the child, and encourage healthy co-parenting. 
    At Donnellan Law, PLLC, we know that divorce is a unique and individual experience. Although divorce is common, every situation is different. Attorneys build a personal “legal roadmap” with clients which are specifically designed to address the unique and individual circumstances in areas such as child support, custody, and spousal support.  To schedule an initial consultation, visit www.dlawfirmny.com/contact.   ]]>         On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[Avoiding the top 5 financial mistakes people make during divorce]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47432 2025-05-12T15:50:43Z 2025-05-08T06:01:03Z Letting emotions run the show Experiencing divorce can be an emotional experience for both people in the relationship. Strong emotions can make it difficult when it comes time to make important decisions for the future. Sometimes the emotional impacts of divorce can lead to fighting over small or unnecessary issues, which can lead to long-term negative impacts, including increased litigation costs, unwise negotiations and emotional scars that cannot be healed. When possible, it is best for a person going through a divorce to focus on practical needs and take the time to figure out what their priorities are. If struggling with the emotional impacts of divorce, seeking support from friends, family or a mental health professional to help work through the emotional aspects of the divorce process may be helpful. While divorce is an emotional issue, treating things like equitable distribution as a business decision is helpful.

    Fighting to keep the marital home

    When setting goals for a divorce, it is important to consider the practical implications of achieving those goals If a person decides that staying in the marital home is the best option, they will need to consider important factors such as how expensive it is to maintain and repair the property and pay for the various bills associated with the home. Before choosing to fight to keep the marital home, it is paramount to consider all the potential long-term impacts. There may be an emotional tie to the house, but the more important question is whether it is affordable or practical to maintain the house, or will keeping the house create a new host of problems?

    Using outdated or inappropriate values for key assets

    Knowing what individual assets are worth is a key component of negotiating a fair property division settlement during a divorce. Spouses have to agree on a value or convince the courts of fair market values to effectively allocate assets. For example, agreeing to use the initial purchase price for a home instead of what the house would currently sell for might deprive one spouse of tens of thousands of dollars in equity because of the increased fair market value of that asset. Collections, vehicles, businesses and investments may require professional valuation. Correctly identifying assets and using appropriate values for these assets will help to ensure that the division of said assets will be equitable.

    Making concessions to keep the peace

    Instead of fighting unnecessarily over every decision, some people make the mistake of avoiding conflict at all costs. They make concession after concession, giving up their interest in numerous assets to move the process along as quickly as possible. While compromising and being cooperative are both positive during divorce proceedings, spouses also need to consider the long-term implications of their choices.

    Failing to review financial records

    People might take too much for granted as they prepare for divorce. They might assume that their spouse was honest when making financial disclosures, or they might not notice the warning signs of dissipation or wasteful conduct involving marital property. If this occurs, thoroughly reviewing financial records and/or hiring a professional, such as a forensic accountant, can help to determine if financial misconduct has occurred.

    Understanding that “equitable” does not always mean “equal”

    In divorce, there are several factors that a court will consider when dividing up marital assets, including separate property contributions, the needs of the parties, and if there was wasteful dissipation of assets or unfair transfers of assets, among several other factors. One party may be entitled to more of one asset than another. Without proper guidance, a person could end up with an inequitable resolution, even though the division was considered “equal.” Those preparing for property division proceedings may need guidance if they hope to secure a fair outcome, and that’s okay. It’s easy to make missteps during the divorce process. Seeking support can help. The attorneys at [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], are experienced divorce litigators who can help manage the financial questions and ambiguities one might experience during a divorce proceeding. For a consultation on your divorce matter, please contact [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"].]]>         On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[New York handles pets differently than other states during divorce]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47430 2025-03-14T06:59:16Z 2025-03-19T06:58:57Z New York does not treat pets like property The standard approach to pets during divorce may seem cold to those who love their companion animals. Traditionally, the family courts treat pets and other animals as property. They allocate the pet to one spouse and account for its value when making other property division decisions. The result is often unsatisfying arrangements for divorcing pet owners. In New York, the approach is somewhat different. The Empire State actually requires that judges consider the best interests of the pet. They look at factors including the connection that each spouse has to the animal, their schedules, their housing and even their finances to determine who can realistically offer the pet the best life after the divorce. Judges generally do not create shared pet custody arrangements. They simply consider family circumstances when deciding who is in a better position to care for the animal. Any negotiations about shared custody or visitation may have to occur privately between the spouses. Learning more about New York's unique divorce laws can help people assert themselves during a difficult time. Those with pets may be able to convince a judge that their retention of a pet is what is best for the animal post-divorce if they can’t reach an agreement with their spouse without judicial intervention.]]> On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[How to prepare for a private placement adoption in New York State]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47429 2025-01-09T05:52:46Z 2025-01-14T05:52:07Z Private placement adoption in New York allows birth parents to choose adoptive parents without involving a public agency. This process is often used for infants and may be facilitated through personal connections or adoption professionals. Unlike public agency adoptions, private placement focuses on direct arrangements, but it is still subject to New York State’s stringent adoption laws to protect all parties involved. For adoptive parents, it is important to understand steps they can take to prepare before welcoming a child into their lives.

    Research and education

    A good place to start for adoptive parents is to understand the regulations and requirements for private placement adoption in the Empire State. Adopting parents can gain useful knowledge by:
    • Attending workshops
    • Reading reputable resources
    • Consulting a reputable legal group
    Learning how the process is regulated can help prospective adoptive parents assess if they have the qualifying requirements.

    Complete a home study

    Before adding a new member to the family, prospective adoptive parents are required to consent to a home study. This involves a mandatory evaluation of their:
    • Living environment
    • Financial stability
    • Readiness to parent
    Prospective adoptive parents should expect a licensed social worker to conduct interviews, review document and assess their suitability as an adoptive parent. Preparing the home and organizing relevant documents, such as financial records and references, can help expedite this process.

    Create a profile for birth parents

    Many private placement adoptions involve prospective adoptive parents creating a profile for birth parents to review. This profile should reflect the parents’:
    • Values
    • Lifestyle
    • Parenting philosophy
    Being genuine and thoughtful can be helpful in building trust and connection with the birth parents.

    Prepare for the emotional journey

    Adoption is an emotional process, regardless of the route prospective adoptive parents choose. Adoptive parents should consider attending counseling or support groups to prepare for the challenges and joys of adoption. Being emotionally prepared can help build a stronger connection with their future child and navigate relationships with birth parents. Private placement adoption in the Empire State is a rewarding but complex journey. By doing due diligence, collaborating with a dedicated legal group and preparing emotionally, prospective adoptive parents can help to facilitate a positive adoption experience.]]>         On Behalf of Donnellan Law, PLLC <![CDATA[Physical abuse isn’t necessary for orders of protection]]> https://www.dlawfirmny.com/?p=47425 2024-11-08T09:05:09Z 2024-11-13T09:04:50Z order of protection imposes certain limits on an individual with a history of domestic violence and can result in the arrest of the other party if they violate the terms of that order. To secure an order of protection, the party experiencing abuse or feeling afraid for their safety must petition the courts. They generally need to present evidence of family offenses occurring. Contrary to what some people mistakenly believe, people do not need evidence of actual physical abuse or serious injuries to qualify for orders of protection.

    Many behaviors may constitute family offenses

    Family offenses do not just involve romantic partners, spouses or other family members physically abusing others. They can also involve people who have shared intimate relationships or who have children together engaging in abusive behavior. Obviously, those enduring domestic assault and sexual abuse may be able to petition the courts for orders of protection based on the physical injuries they have sustained. However, there are a host of other behaviors that can warrant orders of protection. Verbal threats and menacing can help individuals qualify for orders of protection. Attempting to intimidate a spouse or partner into staying in the relationship could be actionable family offenses. So could stalking behavior or harassment. Stalking can involve showing up at someone's place of work or sitting outside of their home where the targeted individual can see the stalker through the window. It might involve sharing details that indicate they are aware of that person's every move or using devices to track an individual's daily behavior. Harassment can also occur online when one person intentionally infiltrates social media platforms and other spaces to harass or intimidate the targeted party. People may share intimate images or videos, steal from the targeted party, coerce them into unwanted behavior or steal their identity. Gathering documentation of the family offenses that have occurred is a key component of securing an order of protection. Those experiencing domestic violence in its many forms often need help proving that family offenses occurred and seeking relief through the courts, and that’s okay. An order of protection doesn't automatically end abusive behavior, but it does generate consequences for continued misconduct.]]>