San Antonio Protective Order Lawyer – Family Violence & Emergency Protection in Texas

Protective orders are powerful legal tools used to protect individuals and children from threats, harassment, violence, and dangerous behavior. Whether you need protection—or you’ve been served with a protective order that could affect your freedom, custody rights, or firearms rights—legal representation is critical.

The Law Offices of Jesus R. Lopez represents clients throughout San Antonio, Bexar County, New Braunfels, Seguin, San Marcos, and surrounding areas in all protective order matters, including emergency orders, family violence cases, and defenses against false allegations.

⭐ What Is a Protective Order?

A protective order is a court order designed to stop:

Violence or threats of violence
Harassment or stalking
Unwanted contact or communication
Approaching a home, workplace, or school
Harm or intimidation involving children
Destruction of property

Protective orders can last from 20 days (temporary) to two years or longer depending on the circumstances.

Protective orders can:

Remove a person from the home
Restrict access to children
Affect child custody decisions
Impact firearm possession
Result in arrest if violated

These orders are serious—whether you need one or must defend against one.

⭐ Types of Protective Orders in Texas

Texas offers several types of protective orders depending on the urgency and circumstances.

⭐ 1. Emergency Protective Order (EPO)

Issued after a family violence arrest or at the request of:

A victim
A guardian
A police officer
A prosecutor

EPOs are usually issued immediately and can last from 31 to 91 days.

⭐ 2. Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order

Issued when a judge believes there is a clear and present danger of family violence.

This can be granted without the other party being present and lasts up to 20 days, with extensions allowed.

These often go hand-in-hand with TROs (temporary restraining orders) in divorce or custody cases.

⭐ 3. Final Protective Order

Issued after a full hearing, where both sides can present evidence.

A final protective order can last:

Up to 2 years, OR
Longer if serious violence occurred, the offender is incarcerated, or the court finds ongoing danger

Violating a final protective order can lead to arrest, jail time, and additional criminal charges.

⭐ How We Help Clients Seeking Protective Orders

If you or your child is in danger, we act quickly to help you obtain legal protection.

We assist with:

Filing for emergency protective orders
Filing for temporary ex parte orders
Preparing evidence of violence or threats
Obtaining protective orders in divorce or custody cases
Coordinating with law enforcement when necessary
Presenting your case at the final protective order hearing

We understand the urgency of these cases and work to provide safety and immediate protection.

⭐ Common Reasons Clients Seek Protective Orders

You may qualify for a protective order if you have experienced:

Family violence
Threats of harm
Stalking or harassment
Destruction of property
Violence toward children
Threats involving weapons
Threats to take or harm the child
Sexual assault
Repeated or unwanted communication

You do not have to wait for physical injury to seek protection.

⭐ Defending Against a Protective Order

Being served with a protective order can have serious consequences:

Loss of firearm rights
Removal from your home
Restrictions on seeing your children
Criminal charges if violated
Damage to reputation and employment
Impact on divorce or custody cases

Many protective orders are based on exaggerations or false allegations, especially during contentious divorces or custody disputes.

We defend clients by challenging:

Credibility of allegations
Lack of evidence
Inconsistencies in statements
Motives related to custody or divorce
Failure to meet legal standards for “family violence”

A final protective order requires proof—we ensure your side is heard clearly and completely.

⭐ Protective Orders & Child Custody

Protective orders can significantly impact custody cases. A judge may:

Restrict or suspend visitation
Order supervised visitation
Grant temporary custody to the other parent
Use the protective order as evidence of danger or misconduct

Whether seeking or defending against a protective order, your parental rights may be at stake.

We protect both your safety and your custody rights.

⭐ Violations of Protective Orders

Violating a protective order in Texas can result in:

Immediate arrest
Criminal charges
Jail time
Additional civil penalties
Loss of custody or visitation rights

If you are accused of violating a protective order, contact us immediately.

We defend allegations of violations and protect your rights.

⭐ Why Choose Our Office for Protective Order Cases

Fast action in emergency situations
Experience with Bexar County family violence courts
Strategic representation in contested hearings
Strong advocacy for both victims and the falsely accused
Knowledge of how protective orders affect custody and divorce
Clear communication and compassionate support

We understand these cases are urgent, emotional, and sometimes dangerous.
We provide strong legal protection during difficult moments.

⭐ Schedule a Consultation Today

If you need a protective order—or if you must defend yourself against one—contact our office immediately.

📞 Call now to schedule a confidential consultation.

Your safety, rights, and future are our priority.