Criminal defense & family law
Criminal charges and Family Court at the same time in Rockland County
A guide for parents and families when an arrest, an order of protection, and custody overlap in Rockland, Orange, and Westchester Counties.
When a criminal case and a Family Court case happen at once
A domestic-violence arrest, a DWI with children in the car, or an order of protection can create one case in criminal court and another in Rockland County Family Court. Each court has its own rules, deadlines, and goals. What you say or agree to in one can affect the other.
Orders of protection and custody
A criminal judge can issue a temporary order of protection at arraignment. That order can limit contact with a partner or children even when a custody or visitation arrangement exists. Violating it can lead to a criminal contempt charge. Before any contact, understand exactly what the order allows.
Statements and self-incrimination
Testimony or statements in a Family Court case may be used by prosecutors in the criminal case. Coordinating strategy across both cases helps decide when to speak, what to file, and when to ask for an adjournment.
What to do right now
1. Do not discuss the facts with police, the other party, or on social media. 2. Keep a copy of any order of protection and follow it. 3. Write down every court date. 4. Gather documents about custody, visitation, and your children. 5. Call or text the office for a confidential conversation.
How this office works
Yvonne Garbett practices both criminal defense and family law, so one lawyer can review both cases and coordinate strategy. You will get a frank explanation of the risks, the options, and what cannot be promised. No lawyer can guarantee an outcome.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.