Dallas Domestic Violence Lawyers
Protecting You During Your Case
If you are a survivor/victim of domestic violence, please consider contacting the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-7233 or texting 1-800-787-3224. This list of domestic violence resources in the DFW area may also be helpful for you. Stay safe — we're here for you.
If you're involved in a domestic violence case, a restraining order can give you the protection you need to stay safe while the court handles your case.
At Mueller Family Law Group, our Dallas domestic violence attorneys are committed to helping survivors/victims of domestic violence receive the competent legal counsel they deserve. Every partner at our firm is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction held by fewer than 7% of licensed attorneys statewide — so the attorney handling your case brings real, specialized legal experience to a situation where the stakes are this high.
Contact us online or via phone at (214) 225-6766 to schedule a consultation with our team.
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Owner & Managing Partner Jim MuellerJim approaches all his divorce cases with the goal of helping clients divide their assets without unnecessarily dividing the family, especially where the interests of children are concerned. -
Partner Abby M. FosterAbby Foster combines board-certified family law expertise with deep involvement in the Collin County legal community, providing clients with knowledgeable, respected representation backed by years of recognized excellence and leadership in family law.
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Partner Rob McAngus
Rob is a partner at Mueller Family Law Group. He is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
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Partner Jonathan J. BatesJonathan J. Bates brings more than three decades of experience to complex family law matters, combining recognized leadership, board-certified expertise, and a distinguished record of service to the family law community at the state and national levels.
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Partner George ParkerGeorge Parker combines decades of family law experience with a thoughtful, strategic approach, developing tailored solutions that help clients achieve their goals while honoring their priorities, values, and long-term interests.
How Do I Get a Protective Order in TX?
In Texas, restraining orders are called "protective orders."
You can obtain one of three protective orders in Texas:
- A magistrate's order of emergency protection (also known as an emergency protective order or EPO);
- A temporary ex parte protective order (TPO), or;
- A permanent protective order (PPO).
Emergency protective orders are typically administered in situations where a law enforcement officer or the court believes an individual is in immediate danger of suffering bodily harm or further abuse at another individual's hands. Frequently, EPOs are handed out when officers make onsite arrests in domestic violence cases. An EPO is probably the least common kind of protective order.
A TPO is more common. To acquire a TPO, an individual must present their case to a judge. If the judge believes the plaintiff (the individual filing for the protective order) is in danger of suffering from more abuse, they may administer a TPO until the court can hold an official hearing.
TPOs contain various protections for survivors/victims of domestic violence, such as preventing an alleged abuser from coming with a certain distance of the plaintiff or residing in the same home.
After handing down an EPO or TPO, the court typically schedules a date for an official hearing.
At the hearing, both parties appear and have the opportunity to present their case and evidence supporting it to the judge.
If the judge rules in favor of the plaintiff and decides a permanent protective order (PPO) is necessary, they can sign one into law. A PPO can order a convicted abuser:
- Not to hurt, threaten, or harass the plaintiff or other individuals;
- To maintain a certain degree of distance from the plaintiff;
- Not to carry a weapon such as a gun, even if they have a license;
- To pay for child support and medical support if the case involves any children;
- To attend anger management courses and regular drug testing (as well as substance management courses if illegal substances play a role in the case);
- To exit a residence they shared with the plaintiff;
- To maintain a certain visitation schedule with any children related to either party (if the court establishes visitation).
Despite what the name may imply, not all PPOs are permanent. Although PPOs can last for life, the standard duration of a PPO is two years, after which the plaintiff can file for an extension if they believe it's necessary.
Our Dallas domestic violence attorneys will tirelessly advocate for your rights, doing everything in their power to help you receive the protection and support you deserve during your domestic violence dispute.
To schedule a consultation with our team, contact us online or via phone at (214) 225-6766.
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“After struggling with two other family law attorneys for 4 years, we switched over to Mueller Family Law, who was able to accomplish much more for our family than any prior attorney.”R.S.
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Mueller Family Law is truly the best of the best. Jim Mueller and his team are top-notch. You cannot beat them as far as responsiveness, professionalism, and knowledge of the law. I have had the best experience here and will always highly recommend them to my friends and family. This firm knows how to win!D.D.
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“I used Janet Brumley at a most difficult time in my life, the end of a 15-year marriage with 4 children. The firm recommended we try for a Collaborative divorce, and we did so successfully in about 90 days. Obviously, a Collaborative divorce requires both”A.S.
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“Jim Mueller, and Greg Beane took on an insurmountable task. They were excellent at keeping us informed, they took on the Colorado court system with a child custody suit.”R.M.
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You have been my counselor, therapist, mentor, advisor – and most of all- my friend. I can’t imagine having gone through this process without you.J.M.
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These attorneys are simply the best, they know what they are doing and do it well. They pay attention to their clients and provide the best advice. Whatever your needs are, they will find a way to help you and get the results you need.L.Y.
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I had a great experience using this firm's Family Law approach for my divorce and then several years later for my prenuptial. Janet Brumley was so knowledgeable and professional, and a genuine pleasure to work with. I have recommended them often without reservation.C.A.
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I feel that at every turn, you went way beyond the call of duty. I had a friend whose care went beyond the legal proceeding of the job. Your diligence and thoroughness saved the day.N.B.
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Building The Path Forward
And The Steps To Get You There
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100+ Years of Combined ExperienceOur team is uniquely equipped with the experience and insight of seasoned veterans and the agility of some of the brightest minds in law.
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Adapting to
Your NeedsWhether you prefer to visit us in one of our offices or meet using video conference, we're ready to help you in any capacity you need. -
A Team-Based, Collaborative EnvironmentOur clients always come first. We work with you as a team to determine a strategy to help achieve your goals while keeping a realistic view.
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Integrity & Honesty Are EverythingFrom our first meeting to the conclusion of your case, we stand by the quality of our work. We always strive to do right by our clients.