In February, Founding Partner Angelica M. Mercado, Esq. presented at a national CLE webinar hosted by Strafford, a BARBRI company, titled Domestic Violence in Family Court: Screening for Safety, Advocacy, and Motion Practice.
Ms. Mercado’s segment, “Motion Practice and Preparing Your Case for Trial,” focused on the strategic considerations that arise when domestic violence matters move from emergency relief to contested hearings and trial. She addressed key aspects of motion practice, evidentiary standards, case development, and courtroom advocacy, emphasizing thorough preparation and a trauma-informed approach.
The program also explored divorce and custody litigation where domestic violence is present or alleged, including cases involving coercive control and post-separation abuse. Panelists examined trauma-informed screening and client interviewing, safety planning, and emergency applications. They also addressed custody and parenting-time strategy, evidentiary and proof challenges, and collaboration with experts, including custody evaluators, forensic clinicians, and financial professionals in cases involving economic abuse.
We are proud of Ms. Mercado’s continued contributions to advancing thoughtful, well-prepared, and safety-focused advocacy in family law matters.
What Morris County Residents Should Know About Domestic Violence in Divorce
According to the CDC, more than one in three women and one in six men in the U.S. have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner, often with lasting impacts.
In Morris County, domestic violence allegations can directly affect divorce, custody, and parenting-time decisions. Cases often begin with a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) filed at the Morris County Superior Court – Family Division or a local municipal court.
Under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, courts determine whether a qualifying relationship exists, whether a predicate act occurred, and whether a Final Restraining Order (FRO) is necessary. These proceedings may involve evidentiary challenges, trial preparation, or motions to vacate an FRO. Local support is available through the YWCA Northern New Jersey and Safe+Sound.
Morris County Domestic Violence Lawyers at Snyder Kenney & Mercado, LLC Advocate on Your Behalf
If domestic violence is a factor in your family law matter, our compassionate legal team at Snyder Kenney & Mercado, LLC can help you pursue legal protection and long-term stability. Call our Morris County domestic violence lawyers at 908-574-3081 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation. We have an office in Parsippany, NJ.