With increase of stay at home Orders and alcohol abuse, there has been an increase in Domestic Violence. The Kentucky Courts remain open for both filing and hearings related to domestic violence allegations. The Courts can issue immediate temporary Orders to protect victims, granting protective orders and often restrictions on contact, exclusive use of the home and custody of children.
Often an EPO or DVO is the initial step to filing for custody or divorce. You can still file for divorce, dissolution, custody and protective orders during the Covid pandemic.
If you have been a victim of domestic violence, you should immediately report to the police, sheriff or other authorities. The police will assist in online filing of and request for EPO, emergency protective order. You will still have a hearing, often within 10 days of the filing. The hearing may take place at the courthouse, or via teleconference, Zoom or Skype. The family courts are using various technologies to continue processing complaints and holding hearings so that the rights of both the victims and accused can be held.
Of course, there are many challenges to using technology in place of traditional hearings, but the basic tenets of the hearings remain the same. The court can only issue an EPO for up to 14 days without giving the accused the right to be heard. As such, the band marches on and hearings are being held.
If you have been a victim, FILE and protect yourself. If you have been accused, you have rights to both a hearing, but should be advised that your testimony in a DV hearing may be used for further action regarding potential criminal charges and may affect custody rights.
If you have a pending hearing, it is strongly advisable to have an attorney. For consultation and representation in Northern Kentucky counties, contact Bouldin Law Firm link, email at [email protected] or call 859-581-6453 (581-MIKE).