Compassionate Staten Island Domestic Violence Lawyer

Providing Legal Help for the Abused in New York

Telling your spouse that you want a divorce can often bring about a significant amount of tension and even animosity. In some cases, you may already be divorcing your spouse because they are abusive towards you and you want to seek safety away from them. Domestic violence is typically thought to involve physical abuse against a spouse, but it can also involve other types of abuse, intimidation, and threats.

(Remember: If you fear you are in immediate danger from an abusive spouse or family member, please call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so. Never do anything that jeopardizes your health or that of your loved ones.)

If you are a victim of domestic violence and would like the assistance of a Staten Island divorce attorney, my team at The Law Office of Keith M. Casella, P.C. can help. Call me at (718) 550-4152.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence?

Violence or abuse in close relationships is used for the purpose of submission, intimidation, or control. My firm takes this type of behavior very seriously, whether or not physical violence is involved. It is important to know that you are not alone and that we can provide you with emotional and legal support during this difficult time. Even if the person abusing you is your spouse or your partner, this does not mean that you do not have legal options.

A few examples of domestic violence include:

• Physical harm or violence
• Threats of violence
• Child abuse or neglect
• Stalking or intimidation
• Harassment

Offering Dedicated Legal Representation

If you are the victim of domestic abuse, you should not hesitate to speak with a Staten Island domestic violence attorney from my firm. I am here to help you navigate your options and pursue a restraining order if necessary. It is important that you keep all evidence of domestic violence, which I can use to establish a strong case on your behalf. I have more than 2 decades of experience and am available to my clients whenever I am needed.

If you are in need of a caring and knowledgeable attorney to represent you, contact me now at (718) 550-4152 to make an appointment.

Commonly Asked Questions

What immediate steps should I take in Staten Island if I am experiencing domestic violence? 

If you are experiencing domestic violence in Staten Island and fear for your immediate safety, call 911 right away if it is safe to do so. After any urgent danger has passed, preserve any evidence of threats, physical injuries, messages, emails, or social media posts that document the abuse. Seek medical attention if needed and ask for written records of any injuries. Reach out to local support services for victims of domestic violence in New York for safety planning and shelter options. When you are ready, contact The Law Office of Keith M. Casella, P.C. to discuss legal protections such as temporary orders of protection and strategies to secure your safety and rights during divorce or family proceedings. With more than two decades of experience and a client-focused approach, the firm can guide you through each legal step while prioritizing your well-being.

How can a restraining order help me in a New York domestic violence situation, and how do I obtain one in Staten Island? 

A restraining order (order of protection) can provide immediate legal barriers against an abuser by prohibiting contact, establishing stay-away parameters, and sometimes addressing temporary custody or housing concerns. In New York, you can request such an order through the family court or the criminal court, depending on your circumstances. In Staten Island, the process typically begins with filing a petition and attending a hearing where the judge considers evidence and testimony. It is important to bring any documentation of threats, injuries, harassment, or stalking. The Law Office of Keith M. Casella, P.C. can help you prepare the necessary paperwork, gather relevant documentation, and explain what to expect at a hearing. With over twenty years serving New York families, the firm emphasizes compassionate client support and clear communication throughout the protection order process.

What types of non-physical domestic violence are recognized under New York law, and how can they be addressed in Staten Island? 

New York recognizes many forms of domestic violence beyond physical assault, including emotional abuse, verbal threats, stalking, harassment, intimidation, financial control, and coercive behavior that aims to dominate or isolate a partner. These patterns can be just as damaging as physical harm and may be used to obtain legal protections. In Staten Island, documentation such as threatening texts, emails, witness statements, evidence of stalking, or proof of financial manipulation can support requests for orders of protection or inform family court and divorce-related proceedings. The Law Office of Keith M. Casella, P.C. assists clients in identifying and preserving this type of evidence, advising on safety planning, and representing their interests in court. The firm’s client-first approach and long-standing presence in the community help victims pursue legal remedies while maintaining confidentiality and dignity.