Testifying at the Final Hearing
At the final hearing, you will have to testify before the judge about what happened and why you want the final protective order. Tell the judge about what you wrote down in your petition, if you have a history of being abused by your attacker, or if he or she has abused any other member of your family.
Other things to be sure and tell the judge:
If you have children in common with the abusive person, tell the judge whether you want to have them continue living with you and whether you want child or other financial support.
If you own or rent your residence with the abusive person, tell the judge if you want to continue living there and, if needed, ask the judge to order the abusive person to help you pay the rent or mortgage.
If you need a car, ask for use of that car.
If you lost money or have injury-related medical bills as a direct result of the attack, ask to be reimbursed for those expenses.
Bring witnesses, photographs of your injuries, medical and/or police reports if you have them. The judge will base a decision on all the facts and evidence presented.
Important:
You should also know that your abuser will probably be at the hearing and that he/she or his/her attorney will have an opportunity to ask you questions.
Language
If English is your second language or you don’t speak any English, you have a right to request an interpreter to assist you with the police and in any court proceedings. Make sure to let the police and/or the court know that you need an interpreter to help you.
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Date: March 16, 2017Author: NHLA