questions & answers

Question: I'm a mother of 2. My oldest is 24 but mentally handicapped. My daughter is 14. Her father not my son's and I live together and co-parent. We are not in a relationship. He is mentally, verbally and has been physically abusive to me. Can I file for a temporary order to protect my children and myself from him? We share custody of her. Please help. Thank you.

Answer: If you fear for your safety and the safety of your children, consider reaching out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline (https://www.thehotline.org/) or call (800)799-7233 for information and resources. In Arizona, an Order of Protection may be requested by any person to stop someone from contacting them – in person or by phone/electronic device. Children may be included on an Order of Protection but only if the judge makes that decision based on the situation. If parenting time (visitation) or legal decision making (custody) have not been decided by a court order, a temporary order or an emergency order may be requested. More information about Orders of Protection can be found here: https://azcourthelp.org/finder/published/protective-orders/protective-orders-english/34-things-to-know-about-protective-orders/file and information about temporary custody orders can be found here: https://www.azleg.gov/ars/25/01034.htm