Order Of Protection Lawyer in Buffalo, NY — What Are Your Rights?
An Order of Protection in Buffalo, NY is a serious court order that can restrict your contact with family members and impact custody rights. Issued under New York Family Court Act Article 8, it requires an immediate legal response. As an Order Of Protection Attorney Buffalo NY, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is an Order of Protection in New York?
An Order of Protection, often called a restraining order, is a court order designed to protect an individual from harassment, threats, or acts of violence by another person. In New York, these orders are primarily governed by the Family Court Act (for family or household members) and the Criminal Procedure Law (when issued in conjunction with a criminal case). The order can impose various restrictions, including directing you to stay away from the petitioner, their home, school, or workplace.
Last verified: April 2026 | Buffalo City Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review New York Family Court Act Article 8 (official New York State Senate). For local court procedures, visit the Eighth Judicial District Court website.
handling an Order of Protection Case in Buffalo
When served with an Order of Protection in Buffalo, time is critical. The initial hearing, often called the “return date,” is typically scheduled quickly. In Buffalo City Court or Family Court, judges take these petitions seriously, and a failure to appear can result in the order being issued by default. An experienced Order Of Protection Law Firm Buffalo NY understands that these cases are highly emotional and fact-specific.
- Do Not Violate the Order: Even if you believe the order is unfair, you must comply with all conditions immediately. Any contact is a criminal offense.
- Document Everything: Gather evidence, including texts, emails, witness information, and your own timeline of events relevant to the allegations.
- Consult an Attorney Immediately: Before the hearing, speak with a lawyer to develop a strategy. Do not attempt to contact the petitioner.
- Prepare for the Hearing: Your attorney will help you prepare testimony and evidence to contest the allegations or negotiate a favorable resolution.
- Understand the Outcomes: The court can dismiss the petition, issue a final order for a set period, or incorporate terms into a related family law case.
Potential Consequences of an Order of Protection
In Buffalo, a final Order of Protection can last for up to two years, with possible extensions, and carries significant collateral consequences beyond the immediate restrictions.
| Potential Restriction | Direct Impact | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Stay-Away Directive | Cannot go to home, work, or school of protected party. | Can force you to move out of a shared residence. |
| No-Contact Order | No calls, texts, emails, or third-party communication. | Severely impacts ability to coordinate child custody or visitation. |
| Firearms Surrender | Required to surrender all firearms and licenses. | Can affect employment for security, law enforcement, or military. |
| Child Custody & Visitation | May lead to supervised visitation or loss of custody. | Creates a negative record used in future family court proceedings. |
| Criminal Charge for Violation | Arrest and Class A misdemeanor charges. | Jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive, client-centered representation. We understand that an Order of Protection is often a tactical move within a larger divorce or custody battle. Our approach focuses on swiftly presenting facts to the court to resolve the matter and minimize its impact on your life and parental rights.
Our Commitment to Buffalo Clients
When you need an Order Of Protection Lawyer Buffalo NY, you need a team that responds with urgency and precision. We provide clear, clear guidance during a stressful time, aiming to protect your rights, your reputation, and your relationship with your children.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (716) 250-6400
By appointment only.
24/7 Phone Consultations — Meetings by Appointment Only
Our Buffalo location is centrally located to serve clients throughout Erie County and the Eighth Judicial District.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an Order of Protection dismissed in Buffalo?
Yes. An Order Of Protection Attorney Buffalo NY can argue for dismissal by challenging the petitioner’s evidence, presenting counter-evidence, or showing a lack of legal basis for the order. Success depends on the specific facts of your case.
What is the difference between a temporary and final order?
A temporary order is issued after an ex parte hearing (without you present) and lasts until your court date. A final order is issued after a hearing where both sides can present evidence and can last for up to two years, with possible extensions.
Will an Order of Protection affect my child custody case?
It depends. Family courts view Orders of Protection seriously. An order alleging domestic violence can lead to supervised visitation or affect custody decisions. A strong defense against the order is crucial to protecting your parental rights.
What happens if I violate an Order of Protection?
Violation is a criminal offense, typically a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail. You will be arrested, and the charge creates a separate criminal case also to the family court matter.
How quickly can I see a lawyer?
Immediately. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Given the short timelines in Order of Protection cases, we prioritize urgent consultations to begin building your defense right away.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing an Order of Protection during a divorce, learn more about your options from our New York Divorce Lawyer page. For broader family law support, visit our New York Family Law hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Amherst.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.Y. Bus. Corp. Law § 101, state law governs this practice area.