Domestic violence allegations often involve far more than a criminal charge. An arrest can lead to no-contact conditions, removal from the family home, a 50B Domestic Violence Protective Order, child custody disputes, firearm restrictions, and other legal consequences that begin long before any determination of guilt or innocence.

 

North Carolina law allows victims of domestic violence to seek a 50B Protective Order against a spouse, former spouse, dating partner, co-parent, household member, or certain other individuals with whom they have a qualifying personal relationship. A 50B can prohibit contact, require a person to leave a shared residence, address temporary custody and support issues, and restrict firearm possession. Alleged violations of a 50B can result in additional criminal charges.

 

At the same time, a 50B proceeding is separate from any criminal case arising from the same allegations. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the State, while a 50B is a civil action filed by a private individual. Because these proceedings often move forward simultaneously and can affect one another, it is important to approach them with a coordinated strategy. Statements made in one courtroom may become relevant in another, and issues involving custody, visitation, and family law frequently overlap with both.

 

Attorney Jake Kruger represents clients throughout Rowan County, Davie County, and Davidson County in domestic violence criminal cases, 50B protective-order proceedings, and related family-law matters. Whether you are seeking a protective order, defending against one, or facing domestic violence charges, understanding the evidence, the applicable law, and the broader consequences of the allegations is critical to protecting your rights and your future.