Domestic Violence Attorney in Middlesex County

Accused Of Domestic Violence In New Jersey? Call Roberts & Teeter, LLC

An arrest or accusation involving domestic violence can change your life in a single night. You may be removed from your home, served with a temporary restraining order, and given court dates you do not understand. In this moment, you need clear information and calm guidance, not judgment.

At Roberts & Teeter, LLC, we focus our practice on New Jersey criminal defense, including domestic violence-related charges in this part of the state. Our attorneys work directly with you, explain what is happening, and help you prepare for the hearings ahead. We also offer free consultations, so you can talk with us about your situation before making decisions.

Reach out to Roberts & Teeter, LLC at (732) 607-5553 or message us online for a consultation. Our domestic violence lawyers in Middlesex County provide the aggressive representation necessary to navigate both criminal charges and Family Court hearings in Middlesex County.

The Dual Nature of Domestic Violence Cases in New Jersey

When you are accused of domestic violence in Middlesex County, you are typically facing two separate legal tracks that proceed simultaneously:

• The Criminal Complaint: This involves charges such as simple assault, harassment, or terroristic threats. These are heard in either the Municipal Court or the Middlesex County Superior Court (Criminal Division) in New Brunswick. A conviction here results in a criminal record, fines, and potential jail time.
• The Restraining Order (Civil): This is a civil proceeding in the Family Division. While it is not a "criminal" trial, the consequences are arguably more permanent. A Final Restraining Order (FRO) in New Jersey never expires and results in your name being placed in a statewide database of domestic violence offenders.

Our firm scrupulously analyzes the interaction between these two cases. Statements made in the Family Court can often be used against you in the Criminal Court, making a coordinated defense strategy the only way to protect your long-term interests.

Penalties and Consequences of Domestic Violence Convictions in New Jersey

The consequences of a domestic violence conviction or a Final Restraining Order in New Jersey are among the most severe in the nation.

Criminal Sentencing

• Assault and Threats: Misdemeanor (Disorderly Persons) offenses carry up to 6 months in jail, while felony-level (indictable) charges can lead to years in state prison.
• Mandatory Fines: In 2026, new civil penalties and surcharges of up to $1,500 are imposed on offenders to fund legal assistance for victims.

The Impact of a Final Restraining Order (FRO)

• Permanent Weapons Ban: You will be prohibited from owning or possessing any firearms, and your New Jersey gun permit will be revoked.
• Fingerprinting and Registry: You will be fingerprinted and entered into the Domestic Violence Registry, which is accessible to law enforcement.
• Custody and Housing: An FRO can award sole custody of children to the other parent and give them exclusive possession of your shared residence, regardless of whose name is on the deed or lease.
• Employment Crisis: Many employers, particularly in healthcare, education, or law enforcement, will terminate employees who become subject to a permanent restraining order.

Why Middlesex County Clients Choose Our Defense Firm

Roberts & Teeter is a New Jersey boutique firm that handles only criminal law. This focus allows us to stay current on New Jersey statutes, case law, and court practices that affect domestic violence cases. We are not a high-volume operation. Instead, we deliberately limit the matters we accept so that we can give each client the time and attention their case deserves.

Every case at our firm is handled personally by our primary attorneys, Michael Brett Roberts and Matthew Teeter. We do not turn your future over to junior associates or staff. When you have questions, you speak with the attorneys who are actually making strategic decisions in your case. Clients often tell us that this direct access helps them feel informed and supported throughout a stressful process.

We also believe that a strong defense begins with understanding the person we represent. We spend time learning about your background, your relationships, and your priorities before recommending any path forward. Cost is a real concern for many people facing criminal charges. We work to provide competent and affordable representation, and we start with a free consultation so you can understand how we can help and what to expect.

Our Strategic Approach to Domestic Violence Defense in Middlesex County

Every domestic violence case involves complex relationships and emotions that go beyond a simple police report. The approach described begins with listening to understand the full history of the relationship and the events in question before recommending options. The legal team carefully reviews all evidence — including police reports, recordings, messages, and social media — to uncover context, inconsistencies, or missing details that could affect the outcome.

They also recognize that many cases arise from heated arguments, stress, or disputes during breakups or custody conflicts. When helpful, they may consult investigators or mental health professionals to strengthen the defense. Clients are prepared for court appearances, including hearings at the Middlesex County Superior Court, and are kept informed about strategy, plea options, and trial decisions, with guidance provided while leaving final choices in the client’s hands.

At Roberts & Teeter, LLC, we do not simply "manage" cases; we litigate them with an exclusive focus on criminal defense. Our approach in Middlesex County includes:

• Challenging Credibility: Domestic violence cases often lack physical evidence. We scrupulously review text messages, social media posts, and emails to show the court a more complete—and often contradictory—narrative of the relationship.
• Proving Self-Defense: We investigate whether you were actually the victim of the initial aggression and acted only to protect yourself.
• Negotiating "Civil Restraints": In some Family Court cases, we can negotiate a "Civil Restraint" agreement. This allows the TRO to be dismissed while setting formal rules for contact, preventing you from having a permanent FRO on your record.
• Expunging Criminal Records: If the criminal charges are dismissed or you complete a diversion program, we move quickly to expunge the arrest record.

Outcomes in domestic violence matters vary. Some cases result in dismissals, some in negotiated pleas, and others may go to trial. The result often depends on factors such as the strength of the evidence, witnesses’ willingness to testify, the facts of the relationship, and the client’s prior history. A domestic violence lawyer in Middlesex County should be prepared to analyze these factors and discuss realistic options with you.

Steps To Take After A Domestic Violence Arrest

It is normal to feel overwhelmed after a domestic violence arrest, especially if you have never been involved with the criminal courts before. There are, however, practical steps you can take right away that may protect you and give your attorneys the tools they need to help.

1. First, follow any temporary restraining order and no contact conditions exactly as they are written. Violating these orders can lead to additional charges, even if the other person says they want contact or wants to drop the case. Courts in this county expect strict compliance, and new violations can make the situation more difficult to resolve.
2. Second, avoid discussing the incident with the alleged victim, police, or potential witnesses without legal guidance. Statements made in the heat of the moment can later be used against you, even if you were trying to explain yourself. Instead, focus on writing down your own clear recollection of what happened, including dates, times, messages, and people who were present or may have useful information.
3. Third, preserve any evidence that may be helpful, such as texts, emails, social media messages, photographs, or call logs. Do not delete anything, even if you are unsure whether it helps or hurts. When you meet with counsel, we can review this material and decide how it fits into your defense.
4. Finally, reach out to a domestic violence lawyer in Middlesex County before appearing alone in court or answering questions. At Roberts & Teeter, LLC, our free consultation is a working conversation, not a sales pitch. We ask you about the events leading up to the accusation, review any documents you have been given, and discuss the next hearings you are facing. By the end of that meeting, our goal is that you have a clearer picture of what to expect and how we can work with you.

Talk To Our Domestic Violence Attorneys in Middlesex County Today

Domestic violence cases and restraining orders can move quickly in New Jersey, and early decisions can have lasting consequences. You do not have to face the courts in this county alone or guess about your options. Our attorneys are ready to listen to your story, review your paperwork, and explain practical next steps.

When you contact Roberts & Teeter, LLC, you speak with lawyers who focus on New Jersey criminal defense and personally handle domestic violence cases. We offer a free consultation, clear communication, and a client-centered approach that keeps your rights and future at the forefront. Taking this first step can help you regain a sense of control.

Call (732) 607-5553 or reach out online to schedule your free confidential consultation with our domestic violence lawyers in Middlesex County today.