Tafelski

domestic violence

Domestic violence is a widespread problem that can be found in every level of society. Violence in Michigan homes can destroy relationships and families and lead to criminal charges. Domestic violence also has an impact on a range of family law matters such as divorce, spousal support, child support and child custody.

If you believe you are a victim of domestic violence, or if you have been accused of it, you should consult with a domestic violence attorney who understands the laws and the system, and who will work with you in a discrete fashion that protects your confidentiality.

For more than a decade, the Bloomfield Hills firm of Paul J. Tafelski, P.C., has assisted clients from throughout the state of Michigan in domestic violence cases, including clients from Oakland County, Troy, Novi, Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield and Birmingham.

Call 248-451-2200 today or contact us online for legal advice in family law matters.

With our background and experience in both criminal and civil domestic violence law, we can assess your case and chart a course in the best interests of your family and your future.

Michigan Domestic Violence Law

Domestic violence can be a single incident or a pattern of physical, emotional, sexual or even financial abuse. Domestic violence usually involves people who are intimately related, including married couples, partners, roommates and children.

Domestic violence often goes unreported. In some cases, it may be falsely reported.

Under Michigan law, a person who is a victim of domestic violence can file for a personal protection order, or PPO, for either a temporary or permanent time period. A court can grant the order without a hearing and without the other party present.

There are two types of PPOs available to domestic violence victims:

• Domestic PPO: This requires a showing that the other party has interfered with your personal freedom, threatened you or committed actual violence against you.
• Stalking PPO: This requires a showing of at least two or more acts by the other party that has caused you to feel threatened, harassed or frightened.

Generally, the PPO can be enforced if you move outside the state of Michigan, and an out-of-state order can be registered if you are moving into the state.

A person who violates a PPO can face serious criminal penalties, including fines and jail time. Being accused of domestic violence can also carry a social stigma with it. If a PPO is issued against you, you must request a hearing to contest the claim within 14 days of a PPO being issued if you wish to challenge it.  If you plan to challenge a PPO you should contact our office immediately.

Michigan is a “no-fault” divorce state. However, domestic violence could be an issue at the negotiation table or in the courtroom in a separation or divorce. The Court has great equitable powers and will often make decisions based upon what it deems fair under the existing circumstances.  Therefore, domestic violence in a relationship is often an important issue.

The “past relations and conduct of the parties” is a factor that a court may consider in determining spousal support and asset division.

Also, even if it wasn’t directed against or witnessed by a child, domestic violence can be considered when deciding who will have physical custody of the children in a marriage.

At the law firm of Paul J. Tafelski, P.C., we understand issues involving domestic violence.  Our skill and experience in this area can be very helpful to a client dealing with domestic violence related litigation. 

Contact Us Today

If you wish to discuss your Michigan domestic violence case in more detail, call family lawyer Paul J. Tafelski, P.C. at (248) 451-2200 or contact us online for an initial consultation. We have helped domestic violence clients in Oakland County, Troy, Novi, Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield and Birmingham.