Resources Available For Domestic Violence Victims Amid Pandemic

CAMDEN COUNTY, NJ — Resources remain available for victims of domestic violence in Camden County, even though courts are closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to the prosecutor’s office.

As of Aug. 3, domestic violence victims can directly apply for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) by visiting the Hall of Justice Family Division or by calling the Camden County Family Division at 856-650-9100, ext. 43490.

Within 10 days, a hearing is generally scheduled for a Final Restraining Order (FRO) hearing. These hearings are being held virtually, so victims must provide secondary contact information such as an email address and/or telephone number to be reached at when scheduling.

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Victims looking for help after business hours can call their local police department, and an officer can help file for a TRO over the phone before a municipal judge. If a criminal complaint is filed due to an incident, victims can apply for the TRO at that time with the officer who responded.

The Temporary Restraining Order will remain in effect until the virtual hearing for the Final Restraining Order (FRO). At the FRO hearing, both sides are given an opportunity to testify, provide evidence, and call witnesses. If the court grants an FRO after that hearing, that order has no end date.

For a full list of other resources available for victims of domestic violence, click here.

See related: NJ Coronavirus, Reopen Updates: Here's What You Need To Know