Many people in New Jersey might have heard that domestic abusers tend to become most violent soon after the victim leaves the relationship. In fact, violence does often escalate at this time. It can be absolutely crucial for victims to find and remain in a safe place during the hours and days that immediately follow such a separation, according to the executive director of the New Jersey Coalition for Battered Women.

However, this risk should not discourage victims from exiting an abusive relationship. Rather, it should encourage them to take advantage of the resources that are available in order to create a safe exit plan.

One tool that victims of domestic violence in New Jersey have is the restraining order. Many people have the idea that restraining orders can’t help, that they are only a piece of paper, but a study performed by the University of Kentucky found that restraining orders do work in many cases.

It can be important to have a restraining order because these are court orders and those who violate them can be arrested. New Jersey law actually requires that restraining order violators post full bail with cash or a secure bond in order to get out of custody.

In order to obtain a restraining order, victims may want to talk to a domestic violence attorney. It is often possible to receive a preliminary restraining order without even facing the abuser. Victims may also benefit from talking to domestic violence victims’ advocates about other resources that can help keep them safe.

Source: Courier-Post, “Data shows restraining orders work,” Lucas K. Murray, May 29, 2013