Protective Order Violations During The Holidays
Protective Order Lawyer, Lili O’Connell explains what to when a protective order has been violated.
The holidays are meant to bring people together, but they can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. Family gatherings, strained relationships, heightened emotions, and alcohol can quickly turn minor disagreements into serious conflicts. We recently shared a video touching on this reality, and it is something our attorneys see every year.
This blog is meant to serve as a practical guide. It focuses on de‑escalation and safety first, while also explaining what happens when a protective order is violated in Virginia and why those violations are taken so seriously.
When Tension Runs High: De‑Escalation Matters
If emotions start to escalate during a family or domestic conflict, taking a step back can prevent long‑term consequences. Some practical de‑escalation tips include:
Walk away from the situation and create physical space
Avoid continuing arguments by text or social media
Do not show up uninvited to someone’s home or workplace
Ask a neutral third party for help if emotions are running high
These steps are especially important when there is a history of domestic conflict or when court orders are already in place.
Protective Orders Are Not Suggestions
A protective order is a court order, not a warning or a guideline. Whether it is an emergency, preliminary, or permanent protective order, both parties are legally required to follow it exactly as written.
Violating a protective order in Virginia is a criminal offense. Even conduct that may seem minor, such as sending a text message, making a phone call, or showing up at a location listed in the order, can result in an arrest.
If a protective order is violated, law enforcement is often required to act. In many cases, that means someone is taken into custody. The violation itself can lead to new criminal charges, separate from whatever originally led to the protective order being issued.
When Domestic Violence Is a Factor
Protective orders are commonly tied to allegations of domestic violence or abuse. These situations are emotionally charged and complex, and they often involve people who know each other well.
For the person protected by the order, safety is the priority. For the person accused of violating the order, a misunderstanding or emotional reaction can quickly turn into a criminal case with serious consequences. Either way, the stakes are high, and the court treats these matters with urgency.
What to Do If a Protective Order Is Violated
If you believe a protective order has been violated:
Contact law enforcement immediately
Do not engage further with the other party
Preserve any evidence, such as messages or call logs
If you are accused of violating a protective order, it is critical not to try to explain the situation on your own. These cases move quickly, and statements made early on can have lasting consequences.
Experienced Help Matters
Protective order cases are not one‑size‑fits‑all. They require an attorney who understands both sides of these matters, including defending against alleged violations and helping clients seek protection when it is necessary.
Attorney Lili O’Connell has extensive experience handling protective order cases, including violations, hearings, and related domestic matters. She understands how these cases are handled in Prince William County, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, and throughout Northern Virginia.
If a protective order is involved and tensions are running high, getting experienced legal guidance early can help protect your rights, your safety, and your future.
If you have questions about a protective order or an alleged violation, contact Battlefield Law Group to speak with an attorney who understands how serious these cases are and how quickly they can escalate.
