A family violence allegation may bring immediate restrictions that affect housing, communication, and parenting. Those restrictions need attention even when the underlying facts are disputed. Begin with the written orders, identify which court issued each one, and get advice about how to meet everyday needs without assuming that informal agreement changes a legal requirement.

In this guide

Identify each separate court document

A criminal prosecution, an emergency protective order, bond conditions, and a family-court proceeding can involve different purposes and procedures. A document in one case may not replace an order in another. Make a list of each case number, court, issuing date, and stated expiration or review date. Give counsel complete copies rather than only the page that appears most restrictive.

Read the exact limits on communication

Restrictions can concern particular people, locations, methods of contact, or conduct. Read the actual language before sending a message, returning home, or asking a relative to pass something along. A protected person’s invitation does not itself change a court order. If contact is restricted, seek legal advice about an authorized arrangement rather than trying to negotiate an exception privately.

Raise practical problems with specific facts

Counsel can give more useful guidance when a problem is concrete: medication remains at a residence, a work tool is needed, or a child’s exchange is scheduled. Describe the issue, the relevant order, and the timing. Ask whether a lawful retrieval or exchange arrangement is possible or whether court action is required. Keep following the existing terms while a proposed solution is considered.

Do not confuse a person’s wishes with dismissal

The complaining witness’s position may matter, but a private request does not by itself terminate a criminal prosecution. Prosecutors and courts have their own legal responsibilities. Avoid asking anyone to change an account, withdraw evidence, or ignore a notice. Give counsel existing messages and other relevant records in their original form, including material that may seem unfavorable or require explanation.

Address overlapping consequences before a resolution

Tell defense counsel about divorce, custody, immigration, employment, and firearms questions that may intersect with the case. Different legal consequences can turn on precise findings or the form of a disposition. Do not rely on a general assurance that a particular plea is harmless. Ask whether another qualified lawyer should advise on a related area before any agreement is accepted.

Before your next step

Your preparation checklist

  • Gather every bond, protective, and family-court order.
  • Identify restrictions affecting people, places, and communication.
  • Explain urgent housing or parenting problems to counsel.
  • Obtain advice before relying on an informal exception.

Reference points: Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 17.292; Harris County District Attorney’s Office, Domestic Violence and Obtaining a Protective Order. General information reviewed September 30, 2026.