Domestic violence is all too common in New York and when a person who is being subjected to abuse finally decides to end the relationship, there are inevitable concerns as to what the abusive spouse will do. It is vital that people be protected from abuse and if there are allegations to that effect, it is possible to have an address be made confidential during the process. Understanding how this can be done is key.
A person who has a case in family court has the right to request that his or her address be confidential and the other person not be allowed to have it. Court papers have addresses on them, so it is imperative to request that the address be confidential and to follow the established procedures. The person who wants a confidential address must inform the family court clerk of the request.
There is an affidavit that must be filled out and signed. After that, the address will not be on any documents. This program is free in New York State and is meant to protect domestic abuse victims who were forced to move or are going to move to improve their safety. Once the person has a confidential address, the address will be listed as such on the files and any court papers that are sent to the other party. The papers the person who has the confidential address receives will be sent to a designated person or the clerk. The agent will get these documents to the person who has a confidential address.
Domestic violence is a difficult situation and people who plan to end the relationship will be fearful that the abuse will get worse when they decide to leave. Whether it is a protective order, a confidential address, or any other strategy to enhance protection, having legal help is a vital step to protect the abused person. Calling for legal advice from the beginning of a case during a custody dispute and at the end of a marriage is important to being protected.