If you have a Final Restraining Order (FRO) hearing scheduled in Hudson County or Bergen County, the time to prepare is now—not the night before, not the week of, but immediately. Whether you’re the plaintiff seeking protection or the defendant facing serious consequences, the outcome of your FRO hearing will have profound, lasting effects on your life. This is not a hearing you can walk into unprepared and hope for the best.

A Final Restraining Order in New Jersey doesn’t expire. Once entered, it remains on your record forever unless dismissed by the court. For victims, it’s a critical tool for safety. For defendants, it carries life-altering consequences including employment barriers, housing difficulties, firearms restrictions, and a permanent entry in New Jersey’s domestic violence registry.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. This guide will help you understand what to expect at your FRO hearing in Hudson or Bergen County and, most importantly, how to prepare effectively starting right now.

Understanding the FRO Process in New Jersey

From TRO to FRO: The Timeline

When someone files for protection from domestic violence, a judge first issues a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO). This provides immediate, short-term protection. The TRO hearing typically happens quickly—often the same day or within days of the initial application—and the alleged victim can obtain it without the defendant present (ex parte).

Once a TRO is granted, a Final Restraining Order hearing is scheduled, usually within 10 days. This hearing takes place before a Family Division judge in Superior Court—either Hudson County Superior Court in Jersey City or Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack.

Critical difference: At the FRO hearing, both parties have the right to be present, present evidence, call witnesses, and tell their side of the story. This is your full hearing on the merits.

The Legal Standard: Preponderance of the Evidence

Domestic violence restraining order cases in New Jersey are civil cases, not criminal cases. This distinction matters enormously because it affects the burden of proof.

In criminal cases, the prosecution must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt”—essentially close to 100% certainty. In civil cases like FRO hearings, the standard is much lower: preponderance of the evidence, which means 51% or greater probability.

The plaintiff (the person who filed for the restraining order) has the burden of proving that:

1. The defendant committed an act of domestic violence as defined by New Jersey’s Prevention of Domestic Violence Act
2. The parties have a qualifying relationship (current or former spouse, dating relationship, household member, etc.)
3. A restraining order is necessary for protection

This lower burden of proof means that even without criminal charges or a criminal conviction, a Final Restraining Order can be entered based on the evidence presented at the civil hearing.

What Happens at the FRO Hearing

Location and Format

Hudson County: FRO hearings are held at the Hudson County Superior Court, Family Division, located at 583 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306. Cases from Jersey City, Bayonne, Hoboken, Union City, West New York, Weehawken, and all other Hudson County municipalities are heard here.

Bergen County: FRO hearings take place at the Bergen County Justice Center, 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601. This court handles cases from Hackensack, Paramus, Teaneck, Fort Lee, Englewood, Fair Lawn, and all other Bergen County communities.

Remote vs. In-Person: Post-pandemic, many FRO hearings in both counties occur remotely via Zoom or Microsoft Teams, though some are conducted in person. You’ll receive instructions about the format when your hearing is scheduled. Remote hearings require reliable internet, a device with camera and microphone, and a private, quiet location.

The Hearing Process

1. Opening statements (if you have an attorney)
2. Plaintiff’s case: The plaintiff testifies first and presents evidence
3. Cross-examination: The defendant (or their attorney) can ask the plaintiff questions
4. Plaintiff’s witnesses: Any witnesses for the plaintiff testify and can be cross-examined
5. Defendant’s case: The defendant testifies and presents evidence
6. Cross-examination: The plaintiff (or their attorney) can ask the defendant questions
7. Defendant’s witnesses: Any witnesses for the defendant testify and can be cross-examined
8. Closing arguments (if you have an attorney)
9. Judge’s decision: The judge will either grant the FRO, deny it, or in rare cases, continue the matter

The entire hearing might last 1-3 hours depending on complexity, number of witnesses, and amount of evidence.

You Must Attend

For plaintiffs: You must attend even if you’ve decided you want to dismiss the restraining order. Failure to appear may result in dismissal or postponement.

For defendants: You must attend. If you don’t appear, the court will likely proceed without you and enter the FRO by default. This is not an appearance you can skip.

The Life-Altering Consequences of an FRO for Defendants

If you’re the defendant, understand what’s at stake. An FRO isn’t just an inconvenience—it fundamentally changes your life in the following ways:

1. Permanent Domestic Violence Registry

Your name will be entered into New Jersey’s central domestic violence registry. This can affect:

• Employment: Many employers conduct background checks. An FRO can disqualify you from jobs requiring clean records, working with vulnerable populations, or positions of trust
• Professional licensing: Doctors, lawyers, nurses, teachers, real estate agents, and other licensed professionals may face disciplinary action or license denial
• Housing: Landlords conducting background checks may reject your application
• Foster care/adoption: You’ll be barred from being a foster or adoptive parent

2. Firearms Prohibition

You will be permanently barred from possessing any firearm, ammunition, or firearms purchaser identification card while the FRO is in effect—which is forever unless dismissed. New Jersey takes this seriously. You must surrender any weapons, and violations can result in criminal charges.

For law enforcement officers, security professionals, or anyone whose livelihood depends on carrying firearms, this can mean the end of your career.

3. Financial Penalties and Fingerprinting

• You’ll be fingerprinted like a criminal, and your prints will be entered into law enforcement databases
• You’ll face fines up to $500
• You may be ordered to pay the plaintiff’s court costs and attorney fees

4. No-Contact and Location Restrictions

The FRO will prohibit you from:

• Having any contact with the plaintiff (no calls, texts, emails, social media, third-party contact)
• Going near the plaintiff’s home, workplace, or school
• Going to additional locations (relatives’ homes, children’s schools, etc.)

Violating these restrictions is a crime for which you can be arrested and criminally charged, even if the plaintiff initiates the contact.

5. Parenting Time Restrictions

If you have children with the plaintiff, the FRO may:

• Suspend or significantly limit your parenting time
• Require supervised visitation only
• Give the plaintiff sole legal and physical custody
• Affect your ability to make decisions about your children’s education, healthcare, and welfare

6. Mandatory Programs and Evaluations

The court may order you to:

• Attend a batterer’s intervention program (typically 26-52 weeks)
• Submit to substance abuse evaluations and treatment
• Undergo psychological or psychiatric evaluations
• Complete anger management or parenting classes

These programs cost money and require significant time commitments.

7. It Never Goes Away

Unlike criminal convictions that might be expungable after a certain period, a Final Restraining Order in New Jersey remains in effect forever unless you successfully petition the court to dismiss it under N.J.S.A. 2C:25-29—a difficult legal process requiring you to prove both good cause and that you pose no danger.

For Plaintiffs: Why Preparation Matters

If you’re the plaintiff seeking protection, thorough preparation is essential for several reasons:

The Burden Is On You

Remember, you have the burden of proof. It’s your responsibility to convince the judge—by a preponderance of the evidence—that:

• Domestic violence occurred
• You need ongoing protection
• The specific relief you’re requesting is necessary

The defendant will likely deny the allegations and may present their own evidence. You need to be prepared to prove your case.

Safety Planning

Even with legal protection, safety planning is critical. A restraining order is a piece of paper—it provides legal remedies if violated, but it doesn’t physically prevent someone from approaching you. Work with domestic violence advocates on comprehensive safety planning.

Understanding What You’re Asking For

Know exactly what provisions you want in the restraining order:

• No contact? (Usually automatic)
• Stay-away distances?
• Custody and parenting time arrangements?
• Child support?
• Possession of the home?
• Return of property?
• Pet protection provisions?

Be specific in your requests and be prepared to explain why each provision is necessary.

Preparing Your Case: What to Do Right Now

Whether you’re the plaintiff or defendant, preparation starts immediately. Here’s your action plan:

Step 1: Hire an Attorney (If Possible)

You have the right to have an attorney, but the court cannot provide one for you. This isn’t criminal court where you’re entitled to a public defender.

Why you need an attorney for FRO hearings:

• Understanding complex evidence rules
• Knowing what questions to ask and how to object
• Presenting your case persuasively
• Cross-examining witnesses effectively
• Avoiding mistakes that could cost you the case

In Hudson and Bergen Counties, experienced domestic violence attorneys understand local judges, court procedures, and what evidence carries weight. The investment in representation can be the difference between winning and losing.

If you can’t afford an attorney: Contact Legal Services of New Jersey (see resources below) to see if you qualify for free legal help, or reach out to your county bar association’s lawyer referral service.

Related: How to Choose a Family Law Attorney | Questions to Ask Your Attorney

Step 2: Gather and Organize Your Evidence

Evidence wins cases. Start collecting everything relevant immediately:

For Plaintiffs

Photographic evidence:

• Photos of injuries (bruises, cuts, scratches, etc.) from all angles
• Photos of property damage (broken items, holes in walls, damaged belongings)
• Photos showing the progression of injuries over time
• Make sure photos are dated and clearly show what they depict

Written communications:

• Threatening or harassing text messages
• Threatening emails
• Social media messages or posts
• Voicemails (save and transcribe them)
• Letters or notes

Documentation:

• Police reports from the incident or previous incidents
• Medical records documenting injuries and treatment
• Emergency room visits
• Dental records if teeth were damaged
• 911 call recordings (request from police)

Witness information:

• Names and contact information for anyone who witnessed the abuse
• People who saw your injuries immediately after
• Neighbors who heard disturbances
• People the defendant made threats to or in front of

Pattern evidence:

• Evidence of prior incidents (even if no police involvement)
• Records showing escalating behavior
• Restraining orders from other relationships (if any)

Financial documents (if requesting child support):

• Recent pay stubs (last 3 months)
• Last year’s tax return
• Proof of childcare costs
• Proof of health insurance costs for children
• If unemployed: proof of unemployment benefits, disability, etc.

For Defendants

Evidence disproving allegations:

• Alibi evidence (proof you were somewhere else when incident allegedly occurred)
• Witnesses who can testify you weren’t present or didn’t do what’s alleged
• Communications showing the relationship was cordial
• Evidence the plaintiff has made false allegations before

Context evidence:

• Communications showing mutual conflict (not one-sided abuse)
• Evidence of the plaintiff’s aggressive behavior
• Medical records (if the plaintiff claims injuries you didn’t cause)
• Photos showing lack of damage if property destruction is alleged

Character evidence:

• Evidence of your good character and non-violent nature
• Employment records showing stability
• Community involvement
• Previous relationships without violence

Financial documents (if child support may be ordered):

• Recent pay stubs
• Last year’s tax return
• If unemployed: proof of unemployment benefits, disability, etc.

CRITICAL: Organize everything chronologically and make multiple copies. Bring originals and copies to the hearing.

Step 3: Prepare Your Testimony

Your testimony is evidence. How you present it matters enormously.

What to Include in Your Testimony

For plaintiffs, your testimony should cover:

1. The qualifying relationship: Explain your relationship with the defendant (married, dated, lived together, have children, etc.)
2. The incident(s): Describe what happened in detail:
   • Date and time: Be as specific as possible
   • Location: Where exactly did it happen?
   • What led up to it: What was happening before the violence?
   • Exactly what the defendant did: Be specific—”He grabbed my arm” not “He attacked me”; “She threw a plate at my head” not “She went crazy”
   • What you did in response: Did you try to leave? Call for help? Defend yourself?
   • Your injuries: Describe pain, visible injuries, medical treatment needed
   • How you felt: Fear, terror, concern for your safety or your children’s safety
3. Pattern of abuse: If there’s a history, describe it briefly to show this wasn’t an isolated incident
4. Impact: Explain how this has affected you—fear, emotional trauma, impact on children
5. Why you need protection: Explain specific reasons you need the restraining order

For defendants, your testimony should:

1. Directly address the allegations: Don’t avoid them—explain your version of what happened (or that it didn’t happen)
2. Be specific and detailed: Vague denials aren’t persuasive; detailed explanations are
3. Acknowledge what you did do: If there was an argument but no violence, explain what actually occurred
4. Provide context: If relevant, explain circumstances that show the incident wasn’t domestic violence
5. Take responsibility for mistakes: If you did something wrong (but not domestic violence), own it—judges respect accountability

How to Deliver Your Testimony

Do:

• Speak clearly and loud enough for the judge to hear
• Make eye contact with the judge (not the other party)
• Stay calm and composed, even when discussing difficult topics
• Pause if you need to collect yourself emotionally
• Answer questions directly—yes or no if that’s what’s asked
• Admit when you don’t remember something
• Tell the truth, even if it’s not helpful to your case

Don’t:

• Yell, curse, or lose your temper
• Argue with the judge or the other party
• Interrupt when others are speaking
• Embellish or exaggerate
• Guess at answers you don’t know
• Minimize serious violence (if you’re the plaintiff) or make excuses for it (if you’re the defendant)

Step 4: Prepare Your Witnesses

Good witnesses can make or break your case. Choose carefully:

Who makes a good witness:

• Someone who personally witnessed relevant events (not just heard about them)
• Someone who can testify to specific facts, not just “she’s a good person”
• Someone credible—stable, articulate, no obvious bias
• Someone who will remain calm and composed under cross-examination

Who to avoid:

• People who will only say vague positive things (“He would never do that”)
• People who are extremely emotional or volatile
• People with credibility issues (criminal records, known liars, etc.)
• Children—generally, children should not testify unless absolutely necessary

Preparing your witnesses:

• Explain what they’ll be asked to testify about
• Review the facts they witnessed with them
• Explain they’ll be cross-examined and should remain calm
• Tell them to answer only the questions asked, not volunteer information
• Make sure they understand the hearing format and what to expect

Logistical preparation:

• Confirm your witnesses will actually appear (get commitments early)
• Provide them the hearing date, time, location, and format (in-person or Zoom)
• If remote, make sure they have technology access
• Have backup witnesses if possible

Step 5: Understand Cross-Examination

If you don’t have an attorney, you’ll need to cross-examine the other party and their witnesses. This is challenging, but here are basic principles:

Effective cross-examination:

• Ask short, leading questions that suggest the answer you want: “You never called the police, did you?” not “Did you call the police?”
• Focus on inconsistencies in their testimony or between their testimony and other evidence
• Highlight exaggerations or implausible claims
• Challenge their credibility if appropriate
• Know when to stop—once you get a helpful answer, move on

Ineffective cross-examination:

• Asking open-ended questions that let them explain
• Arguing with the witness
• Asking questions you don’t know the answer to
• Asking too many questions—sometimes less is more
• Getting emotional or personal

If you’re being cross-examined:

• Listen carefully to each question
• Answer truthfully and directly
• Don’t volunteer extra information
• If you don’t understand, ask for clarification
• Stay calm even if the questions are confrontational

Step 6: Contact the Court About Evidence Submission

Hudson County and Bergen County courts have specific procedures for submitting evidence, especially for remote hearings.

What you need to do:

• Call the court before your hearing to ask about evidence submission procedures
• Ask whether you should email documents, upload them somewhere, or bring physical copies
• For remote hearings, ask how to share exhibits during testimony
• Get specific instructions about formats (PDFs, photos, videos, etc.)

Hudson County Family Division: (201) 748-4400 Bergen County Family Division: (201) 527-2610

Don’t wait until the last minute—contact the court at least a week before your hearing to ensure you follow proper procedures.

Step 7: Prepare Logistically

For in-person hearings:

• Know exactly where the courthouse is and where to park
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early
• Go through security (no weapons, minimize metal objects)
• Dress appropriately (business casual, respectful attire)
• Bring all your evidence in organized folders
• Bring something to do while waiting
• Arrange childcare—do not bring children unless the judge specifically instructed you to

For remote hearings:

• Test your technology several days before
• Ensure strong internet connection
• Find a quiet, private location with neutral background
• Dress professionally from at least the waist up
• Have all evidence ready to share electronically
• Close all other programs/tabs to avoid distractions
• Log in 15 minutes early to resolve any technical issues
• Mute yourself when not speaking

Special Considerations for Hudson County

Hudson County’s Family Division serves Jersey City, Bayonne, Hoboken, Union City, Weehawken, West New York, Secaucus, North Bergen, Guttenberg, Harrison, Kearny, and East Newark.

Court culture: Hudson County handles a high volume of domestic violence cases. Judges appreciate parties who are prepared, organized, and focused on facts rather than drama.

Language services: Hudson County’s diverse population means interpreters are available in many languages. Request an interpreter when scheduling your hearing if needed.

Domestic violence advocates: Hudson County has strong domestic violence advocacy programs. Use these resources (see below).

Parking and accessibility: The Jersey City courthouse has limited parking. Plan extra time or use public transportation. The building is accessible for those with disabilities.

Special Considerations for Bergen County

Bergen County’s Family Division serves all 70 municipalities in the county, including Hackensack, Paramus, Teaneck, Fort Lee, Fair Lawn, Englewood, Ridgewood, Bergenfield, and many others.

Court culture: Bergen County judges are thorough and expect detailed, well-organized presentations. Strong evidence and clear testimony are critical.

High-conflict case management: Bergen County has experience with complex, high-conflict domestic violence cases and utilizes expert evaluators and resources.

Technology: Bergen County has embraced remote hearings. Ensure you’re comfortable with the technology if your hearing is remote.

Parking and accessibility: The Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack has parking facilities. Arrive early as security lines can be long. The building is fully accessible.

Resources in Hudson and Bergen Counties

Domestic Violence Advocates

For plaintiffs, working with a domestic violence advocate is invaluable:

Hudson County:

• Hoboken Shelter for the Homeless: (201) 420-0754
• Women Rising (Jersey City): (201) 333-5700
• New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence: njcedv.org or call 1-800-572-SAFE (7233)

Bergen County:

• Center for Hope & Safety (formerly YWCA Bergen County Domestic Violence Program): 24-hour hotline: (201) 944-9600
• The Shelter Our Sisters: (201) 262-5610
• New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence: njcedv.org or call 1-800-572-SAFE (7233)

Advocates can:

• Help you prepare for the hearing
• Accompany you to court for support
• Connect you with counseling, shelter, and other services
• Help with safety planning
• Provide referrals to attorneys

Legal Services

Legal Services of New Jersey (statewide): 1-888-576-5529 or www.lsnj.org

Hudson County: Legal Services of New Jersey – Jersey City Office: (201) 792-6363

Bergen County: Legal Services of New Jersey – Hackensack Office: (201) 487-2166

These organizations provide free legal services to low-income individuals. Call to see if you qualify.

Lawyer Referral Services

If you don’t qualify for free legal services but need help finding an attorney:

Hudson County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (201) 798-2727

Bergen County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (201) 488-0044

Court Information

Hudson County Family Division:

• 583 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
• Phone: (201) 748-4400
• Website

Bergen County Family Division:

• Bergen County Justice Center, 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601
• Phone: (201) 527-2610
• Website

Additional Resources

• New Jersey Courts Domestic Violence Resources: Official court information and resources
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), 24/7 support
• Legal Services of NJ Domestic Violence Guide: Comprehensive guide to your legal rights

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I represent myself at the FRO hearing?

Yes, you have the right to represent yourself. However, FRO hearings involve complex evidence rules and have high stakes. If at all possible, hire an attorney or at least consult with one before the hearing. If you cannot afford an attorney, contact Legal Services of New Jersey to see if you qualify for free representation.

What if I want to dismiss the restraining order before the hearing?

Plaintiffs can request dismissal, but you must still appear at the hearing to make this request. You cannot simply skip the hearing. Call the court or appear in person to formally request dismissal. The judge will ask you questions to ensure you’re making this decision voluntarily and safely.

Defendants cannot unilaterally dismiss a TRO—only the plaintiff can request dismissal before the FRO hearing. After an FRO is entered, defendants can file a motion to dismiss, but this is a separate legal process.

Can I bring my children to the FRO hearing?

No. Do not bring children unless a judge specifically instructed you to do so. Arrange childcare in advance. FRO hearings involve adult subject matter that children should not witness, and judges strongly prefer that children not be present.

What happens if I don’t show up for the hearing?

Plaintiffs: Your case may be dismissed for failure to prosecute, or it may be rescheduled. Either outcome is bad—if dismissed, you lose protection; if rescheduled, you extend the uncertainty.

Defendants: If you don’t appear, the court will almost certainly proceed without you and enter the FRO by default. You will face all the consequences of an FRO without ever having the chance to tell your side.

Both parties must attend.

How long does the FRO hearing take?

Most FRO hearings last 1-3 hours, depending on the number of witnesses, amount of evidence, and complexity of issues. However, you may need to be at the courthouse longer due to waiting time. Plan to dedicate the entire day to the hearing.

Can the plaintiff and defendant talk to each other at the courthouse?

No. The TRO prohibits contact, which remains in effect until the hearing concludes. Do not approach, speak to, or have any contact with the other party at the courthouse. Violating the TRO—even at the courthouse—can result in your arrest.

What if the plaintiff contacted me after the TRO was issued?

Even if the plaintiff initiates contact, you cannot respond. The TRO prohibits you from having contact, regardless of who initiates it. If the plaintiff contacts you, document it (save messages, record calls with their knowledge, etc.) and inform your attorney. Do not respond.

Can I appeal if I lose?

Yes. Both plaintiffs and defendants can appeal an FRO decision, but you must file your appeal within 45 days of the judge’s decision. Appeals are complex legal proceedings requiring an attorney. Use Form CN 10837 to appeal.

Once an FRO is entered, can it ever be removed?

Yes, but it’s difficult. FROs do not automatically expire—they remain in effect forever unless dismissed by the court.

Plaintiffs can request dismissal at any time by contacting the court.

Defendants can file a motion to dismiss under N.J.S.A. 2C:25-29(d), but must prove both “good cause” and that they pose “no danger” to the plaintiff. This typically requires showing significant changed circumstances and several years of compliance with the order.

Related: Vacating a Final Restraining Order in Hudson County: Key Factors and Tips

About the Author

Santo Artusa Jr., Esq. is an experienced family law attorney and domestic violence advocate helping individuals in Hudson County and Bergen County navigate restraining order proceedings. A graduate of Rutgers School of Law (2009), Santo has represented both plaintiffs seeking protection and defendants facing false allegations. He understands that FRO cases involve high emotions, serious stakes, and require strategic, compassionate representation. Whether you’re seeking safety or defending your reputation and rights, Santo provides knowledgeable, prepared advocacy focused on achieving the best possible outcome.

Don’t Wait—The Time to Prepare Is Now

Final Restraining Order hearings in Hudson and Bergen County determine outcomes that last forever. For victims, inadequate preparation can mean losing critical protection. For defendants, it can mean life-altering consequences that never go away.

You cannot afford to walk into this hearing unprepared. Every day between now and your hearing date should be spent gathering evidence, preparing testimony, securing witnesses, and understanding your rights and options.

Whether you’re the plaintiff seeking protection or the defendant facing serious accusations, having experienced legal representation can make the difference between success and devastating failure.

Facing an FRO hearing in Hudson County or Bergen County? Don’t go through this alone. Time is critical—start preparing your case today. Call or text 201-205-3201 to schedule an immediate consultation. Whether you’re seeking protection or defending against allegations, we provide strategic, compassionate representation when you need it most.

Related Articles: Understanding Domestic Violence Law in New Jersey | What Happens After an FRO is Granted | Defending Against False Domestic Violence Allegations | Safety Planning for Domestic Violence Victims