Victim Contacting Restrained Party

Summary

In Iowa, the protected person contacting the restrained party does not violate the restraining order, but it is generally discouraged as it can complicate the situation. Your nephew should gather proof of the victim initiating contact and discuss this with his court-appointed lawyer. If he feels his representation is inadequate, he can request a new lawyer.

Full Conversation

Can the victim of restraining order/no contact get in trouble for contacting the person they filed it on
Hi Karri, it depends on the jurisdiction. In some places, the protected party contacting the restrained party doesn't violate the order. However, it's generally advised against as it can complicate the situation. Could you tell me where you are located so I can provide more specific information?
Iowa
In Iowa:
- The person who has a protective order against them should not initiate contact.
- If the protected person initiates contact, it doesn't violate the order.
- However, it's discouraged because it might complicate the situation.

Please consult a local attorney for advice.
I read they could be somewhere
Hello Karri, I'm not quite sure what you mean by "I read they could be somewhere". Could you please clarify so I can provide the best possible assistance?
My nephew had one on him and the victim contacted him first and now he's paying for it
Hi Karri, I understand your concern. It's advisable for your nephew to have proof of the victim initiating the contact, as this could be used in his defense. However, he should consult with a local attorney to discuss his options.
He has a court appointed lawyer and he has told him it's all on him and has to serve 14 days house arrest and the victim just gets nothing
Hello Karri, it seems like a complex situation. I suggest your nephew discuss this matter with his lawyer in detail. They can guide him on how to handle such a situation legally. Remember, each case is unique and requires specific legal advice.
I understand this, but this court appointed lawyer finally called back on the day of court and had at least a week and half to get ahold of him, isn't that wrong especially for a court appointed lawyer
Hello Karri, it can be frustrating when communication with a lawyer is delayed. However, the ethical guidelines for attorneys don't specify a timeline for communication. It may be beneficial for your nephew to express his concerns to his lawyer or to request a new court-appointed lawyer if he feels his representation is inadequate.
He really wants to get this over with tho
I understand his frustration. It's important to have a clear and open line of communication with the lawyer. If he feels his lawyer isn't doing a satisfactory job, he can request a new one. Has he considered this option?