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Protective Orders
Our experienced attorneys handle a wide range of criminal cases, including misdemeanors, felonies, DUI, drug offenses, assault, theft, and more. We will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the evidence against you, and advocate for the best possible outcome—whether that’s a dismissal, reduced charges, or a not-guilty verdict.
When the stakes are high, you need a defense attorney who will fight for you. Take the first step toward protecting your future.
Understanding Protective Orders
Your Advocate in Protective Order Cases
Protective orders are crucial for safeguarding individuals and families from harm, whether you’re seeking protection or defending against a false accusation. At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we understand the emotional and legal complexities these cases bring, and we’re here to provide compassionate and effective representation.
Protective Orders in Virginia are court-issued rulings to protect individuals from abuse, harassment, and/or violence. Here is how it works:
1. General Types of Protective Orders
- Emergency Protective Order (EPO): If something takes place where an immediate protection is required, a court or law enforcement can grant such an Order for up to 72 hours.
- Preliminary Protective Order (PPO): This Order can be granted by a judge or magistrate after a brief hearing. The offender does not have to be present and this order may last up to 15 days.
- Permanent Protective Order: This type of Order requires a full evidentiary hearing to be granted. Although contradictory to its name, this order can last up to two years and can be renewed at the request of the protected person.
2. Filing of Protective Order
- Where to File: Protective Orders are filed at your local Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court (if the offender is a household member, family, or juvenile), or General District Court.
- Necessary Information: You will need to present the court with details that prompted the petition, such as dates, times, and descriptions of the behavior.
3. Court Hearing
- Initial Hearing: The court will hear brief evidence by the petitioner, themselves or an attorney to determine if it will grant the initial protective order.
- Final Hearing: A final hearing will be held to decide if a permanent order will be granted. Both parties will have the opportunity to present evidence, witnesses, and arguments to aid the judge in their decision.
4. What Protective Orders Can Do
- Prohibit the abuser from contacting or approaching the protected person.
- Grant exclusive use of a residence and force the offender to vacate the home.
- Provide temporary custody of children.
- Force the offender to take classes or enter programs to help cease their abusive behavior.
5. What Happens if Someone Violates a Protective Order
- Violating the court’s Order is a criminal act in Virginia and can result in criminal charges being brought against the offender.
A protective order provides individuals facing abuse or threats with protection. Understanding the intricacies and nuances in the necessary facts, filing processes, and fighting for or against a protective order is a massive advantage to SMITH | ASHCRAFT clients.
Our experienced attorneys can assist with filing for protective orders, navigating court hearings, or challenging unwarranted claims.
We are dedicated to protecting your safety, rights, and reputation.

Contact us today to discuss your situation and how we can help with your protective order case.
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DUI / Traffic Defense
Being charged with any traffic offense, but specifically, driving under the influence is a very serious matter.
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Domestic Violence
In Virginia, actions of domestic violence are defined as behavior in which an individual within an intimate or familial relationship partakes in express threats, causes physical harm on a partner or family member, or partakes in actions that leads a partner or family member to fear physical harm.
Learn more about Domestic Violence and how it may pertain to your situation.
Traffic Violations
A traffic violation can have serious consequences, from hefty fines to license suspension or even increased insurance rates. We understand how overwhelming these situations can be, and we’re here to help.

Whether you’re facing a speeding ticket, reckless driving charge, or DUI, our experienced attorneys will fight to protect your driving record, minimize penalties, and ensure your rights are upheld. Don’t let a traffic violation derail your life—contact us today for aggressive and effective representation.
Reckless Driving
In Virginia, reckless driving is defined as driving that endangers the life, limb, or property of any person.
Learn more about what a reckless driving offense entails and how we can help you.
Drug Offenses
In Virginia, reckless driving is defined as driving that endangers the life, limb, or property of any person.
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There's no where in Virginia that we don’t know
At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we are proud to offer comprehensive legal services throughout Virginia. Whether you’re in Richmond, Northern Virginia, the far reaches of Roanoke, or any other part of the state, our experienced team is here to provide experienced representation tailored to your unique needs. No matter where you are in Virginia, we’re committed to delivering the same high level of service and dedication to each client, ensuring your case receives the attention it deserves.

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