Being arrested for domestic violence can mean navigating a complex legal process that can impact your life for years to come. After posting bail, you may need to meet with social workers and attend several court hearings in rapid succession, which can be overwhelming for many defendants. Understanding the process and knowing what to expect if you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Connecticut can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

What to Expect if You’re Accused of Domestic Violence in Connecticut

Securing Your Release From Jail

In some cases, the arresting officers may issue a citation and release you on a Promise to Appear if they decide you don’t pose an immediate threat. However, at their discretion, they may decide to hold you until your first date, which is usually the next business day.

At this hearing, the judge will hear a summary of the state’s evidence and set a bail amount. After posting bail, you’ll be free to go, although you may not be allowed to return home if the complainant is seeking an order of protection.

Meeting With Family Services

You will also have to meet with a Family Relations Officer who specializes in domestic violence cases. They may ask about your personal history, the relationship with the accuser, and the circumstances that led to the arrest. Based on your responses, the Family Relations Officer will make a recommendation to the court about whether a Protection Order is appropriate. Depending on the nature of the charges against you, you may have to meet with a Family Relations Officer several times throughout the case.

The Protective Order Hearing

In addition to the regular court trial, you’ll also have to attend a protective order hearing, which is usually held the same day as the arraignment. Domestic violence courts understand that tensions might be running high after an arrest, so they often err on the side of caution when making these decisions.

You may be issued a Full No Contact order that strictly prohibits any contact with the accuser or their family members. The advice of an attorney during this hearing can have a significant impact on the outcome, so it’s important to post bail and begin planning your legal defense immediately.

If someone you care about has been arrested in Connecticut, trust 3-D Bail Bonds to get them back home as quickly as possible. We’ve been helping defendants throughout the state post bail for over 23 years, with a reputation built on friendly customer service and 24-hour availability. Visit our website to look up your nearest location now, follow our Facebook for helpful tips, and call (860) 247-2245 to reach our main office in Hartford at 57 Fishfry St across the Hartford Correctional. To speak with a bail agent in New Britain, call (860) 229-2525 or visit our New Britain Facebook page. Dial (203) 562-6666 for help posting bail in the New Haven and Hamden areas and visit our bail blog for more information.