The holidays can be a nice break from your routine. You may get more time off from work and the thought of holiday parties can give you something to look forward to. The holiday season can also be stressful for some. The added stress can also put a strain on some relationships and domestic violence doesn’t take a break during the holidays.

Domestic Violence Holiday Statistics

There have been numerous studies on how the holidays affect domestic violence rates. A study by the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence found that there is an increase in domestic violence reports on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. In fact, the rate of domestic violence reports is 2.7x the daily average.

Reports of domestic violence do decrease initially during Christmas, but some believe this may be due to fewer people reporting and not an actual decrease in violence. Families spend more time together and may be around other family members, which may prevent violence from occurring. Some people also may be more hesitant to report domestic violence in fear of ruining the holidays. This means it can be hard to get an accurate report of domestic disputes during this time.

Domestic Violence Causes

The daily routine during the holiday season may change as families welcome guests into their homes or try to maintain appearances. 

Disagreements or fights over how to celebrate or who to invite to holiday events can also lead to an increase in disputes. Many holiday parties serve alcoholic drinks, which can also cause more disagreements and sometimes, abuse. 

New Jersey Domestic Dispute Laws

New Jersey classifies domestic dispute as any action of physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual abuse with a person with who you are, or previously have shared a relationship. If someone reports domestic violence, they are usually given an option to file a temporary restraining order (TPO). This is an order given by the judge that prevents the proposed abuser from making contact with the victim during the specific time period.

The abuser will then be required to appear in court where they’ll have the opportunity to present evidence against the claim. If they don’t appear, the judge may issue a permanent restraining order. New Jersey takes a strict stance against domestic violence to protect victims. However, if you’re wrongly accused of domestic violence, this can be difficult to navigate. If you share a child together, a TPO or permanent restraining order can affect your child custody agreement.

If you’re wrongly accused of domestic violence, it’s important that you consider your options as soon as possible. If you wait, the charges could affect you from sharing custody of your child. A criminal record can also affect your future employment options. Find out what defense options you may have available.

Contact an Experienced Marlton Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Domestic Abuse Charges in New Jersey

Were you arrested or charged with domestic violence in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The Law Office of John B. Brennan has successfully represented clients charged with domestic violence in Marlton, Moorestown, Mt Laurel, Haddonfield, and throughout New Jersey. Call (856) 446-5123 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 10,000 Lincoln Dr. East, Suite 201, Marlton, NJ 08053.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.