1. How Does A Domestic Violence Charge Affect My Military
Career?
Domestic violence issues and the consequences of protective orders affect military members
as well as civilians. Protective orders based on domestic violence charges are, however,
addressed differently in the military and civilian courts. The consequences of a domestic
violence protective order issued against a member of the military can have professional
repercussions, including the loss of a commission and dismissal from the armed forces.
The issuance of a Military Protective Order (MPO) will not prevent a Virginia civilian court
from also issuing its own protective order due to domestic violence. A civilian court may issue
an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) the same day that it is filed and notify a military
member’s command within 24-48 hours. After an EPO is issued, the civilian court will
schedule a hearing where the EPO may be converted to a Permanent Protective Order
(PPO) which may be in effect for up to two years.
A protective order, both EPO and PPO, includes orders from the Court which mandate that
an individual not possess, buy or transport any firearms or ammunition. The Court may also
order that a person sell, surrender or make other arrangements for any firearms that they
currently have in their possession. Protective orders generally do not make exceptions for
armed security guards, members of law enforcement or military members.
If you have been charged with domestic assault in Virginia Beach or anywhere else in the
Hampton Roads area, or are currently subject to a civilian protective order, a domestic
violence lawyer can help reduce the ramifications and protect your career. Call now for free
consultation: (757) 422-4646.
domestic violence attorney, defending criminal cases, criminal attorney