Understanding the order you received
In New York, these orders are called orders of protection, and they can come from Family Court, a criminal court, or the Supreme Court in a divorce. A temporary order can be issued based on one side's account, and the respondent then gets a chance to be heard at a later appearance. The terms can range from refraining from harassment to staying away completely, and the specific wording controls what you may do. A temporary order can also include firearm surrender and limits on contact with children, which may affect custody arrangements.
What to avoid, and what to bring
Do not contact the petitioner, even to apologize or to work things out, and do not ask friends or relatives to pass along messages. A violation can lead to arrest and a separate criminal contempt charge. Gather texts, emails, call logs, and social media messages that show the history between you, and identify witnesses who saw relevant events. Keep a copy of the order with you, and if you need belongings from a shared home, ask counsel or the police to arrange it.
Preparing for the hearing
Family Court cases may involve a fact-finding hearing where both sides present evidence, and some resolve by consent without findings against the respondent. If there is a parallel criminal case, what you say in Family Court can be used there, so any testimony has to be planned with both cases in mind. Missing the court date can lead to an order being entered without your side being heard. In a first meeting we review the petition, the terms of the temporary order, the next appearance, and whether a criminal case or custody matter is running alongside.
