By Anthony I. Shin, Esq. | Civil Litigation | Protective Orders | Shin Law Office
Protective Orders in Child Custody Cases Loudoun County
Custody disputes are already emotional.
However, when a protective order is filed in the midst of it all, primarily based on fear rather than fact, the stakes suddenly skyrocket.
I’ve helped parents throughout Loudoun County navigate this exact storm, and one thing has become painfully clear: in family court, fear is a powerful force that can be used as a weapon.
If you’re a parent caught in this situation, you’re probably feeling blindsided, confused, and afraid of losing time with your children.
You’re not alone—and you’re not powerless.
How Protective Orders Impact Custody Battles
Protective orders are meant to protect victims of abuse, threats, or stalking.
But in some custody battles, they’re filed as leverage to gain the upper hand.
A parent accused of threatening behavior may be:
- Removed from the home
- Blocked from seeing the kids
- Labeled as “dangerous” before any objective evidence is heard
And here’s the hard truth: even if the order is based on exaggerated or unproven claims, it can influence judges who are trying to act cautiously and protect children at all costs.
I’ve Seen Both Sides—and I Defend What’s Fair
As a family law attorney, I represent both parents seeking protection and those fighting to clear their names.
In either case, the court seeks one thing: the safety of the children.
But in high-conflict custody cases, it’s easy for fear to blur the truth.
I work to bring the facts back into focus—quickly, clearly, and strategically.
What the Courts Look For in Loudoun County
In Loudoun County, judges don’t take protective orders lightly.
They’ll look at:
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Past police reports or CPS involvement
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Witness statements from family, friends, or school officials
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Digital evidence like texts, emails, or voice messages
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Medical or psychological evaluations if abuse is alleged
But here’s the challenge: emergency protective orders can be granted without hearing both sides.
And once issued, they often limit contact with your children for weeks or more, until a full hearing can be held.
That’s why we move fast.
How I Protect Both Parents and Children
When I represent a client in a custody case involving a protective order, my goal is to:
- Keep the focus on the child’s well-being, not courtroom drama
- Push back on false or weaponized claims with evidence and witness support
- Protect the rights of the accused parent while ensuring safety protocols are followed
- Seek court-approved parenting time or reunification plans where appropriate
- Keep the situation from spiraling into long-term damage for the family
Protective orders should not be used to eliminate a parent from a child’s life unless there’s real danger.
And when there is danger?
I make sure the court hears it—loud and clear.
If You’re Caught in the Middle, Get Help Now
Protective orders and custody battles are both complex on their own.
Combined, they can change the course of a child’s life forever.
Whether you’ve been accused, threatened, or feel your child is at risk, I’m here to help you make the next move strategically—not emotionally.
Call Shin Law Office at 571-445-6565 or book online today!
— Anthony I. Shin, Esq.
Principal Attorney | Shin Law Office
