Gun Rights during a Domestic Violence Injunction

A person who is attempting to escape an abusive relationship or get away from an abusive relative may use a domestic violence injunction to begin the legal process of protecting themselves. The court can eventually create a protection order for the victim in many cases, using these temporary injunctions as a way to enforce protection measures. As a result of these injunctions, the abuser in question may not be allowed to possess a firearm.

Victim safety is a major concern for the law. Although protective measures are great for stopping people from taking action, they may not be entirely effective. This is especially the case when a person does not think clearly, as is often the case. A highly emotional abuser may want to get revenge on a victim for contacting the police and reaching out for help. If that abuser owns a gun, they may attempt to use the firearm against the victim.

The law states that a person may not possess a firearm during the period of an injunction. These injunctions include those filed for domestic protection orders and restraining orders. These injunctions are considered temporary, meaning that a gun owner may be allowed to regain his or her gun collection at a later point in time.

If you have been victimized by a violent relative or significant other, there may be legal options available to protect yourself. To learn more about these rights and options and what you can do to exercise them, contact an experienced family lawyer.