New Canaan Domestic Violence Lawyer – Protecting Your Rights, Your Family, and Your Future

A domestic violence arrest in New Canaan can turn your world upside down overnight. Often, it begins with a heated argument that gets out of hand. Someone calls 911, thinking it will calm things down. But once the police arrive, Connecticut’s mandatory arrest law means someone is almost always taken into custody — even if the situation has already cooled off.

I’m Allan F. Friedman, a New Canaan domestic violence lawyer with more than 30 years of experience defending clients in Stamford Superior Court (GA-1) — the courthouse where all New Canaan family violence cases are prosecuted. My goal is to protect your rights, your record, and your relationships while guiding you through one of the most stressful experiences of your life.

In Connecticut, the term “domestic violence” actually refers to family violence, defined under Connecticut General Statutes § 46b-38a. It covers not only spouses and romantic partners but also roommates, former partners, and family members.

Under § 46b-38b, police responding to a domestic dispute are required to make an arrest if they have probable cause to believe a family violence crime occurred — even if the alleged victim doesn’t want anyone arrested.

That means you can be arrested for something as minor as:

• A verbal argument overheard by neighbors
• Mutual pushing or shoving during an argument
• Breaking property or throwing objects
• A misunderstanding or exaggerated 911 call

After the arrest, you’ll be released on bond with a summons for the next business day at Stamford Superior Court (GA-1). You’ll also receive temporary conditions of release that usually prevent contact with the accuser until the court determines whether to issue a formal protective order.

All New Canaan domestic violence cases are handled in the Family Violence Docket at Stamford Superior Court, 123 Hoyt Street. Here’s what happens step-by-step:

• Arraignment (First Court Appearance) – You’ll meet with a Family Relations Counselor before court. They interview both parties and make recommendations to the judge about what level of protective order to issue.
• Protective Order Issuance – The judge will issue one of three types of protective orders:
  • Full No-Contact – No contact of any kind with the protected person.
  • Residential Stay-Away – You may communicate but cannot return to the home.
  • Partial or Limited – Contact allowed, but no threats, harassment, or abuse.
• Pre-Trial Conferences – After the arraignment, your lawyer and the prosecutor begin negotiating a resolution. Most first-time offenders are referred to the Family Violence Education Program (FVEP), which can lead to a complete dismissal if completed successfully.
• Program Completion or Case Litigation – If you’re granted FVEP, your case is placed on hold while you attend classes. Upon completion, the charge is dismissed, and your record is erased. If you’re not eligible, the case proceeds through normal pre-trial or trial phases.

The Family Violence Education Program (FVEP) is designed for first-time offenders charged with minor family violence crimes such as Disorderly Conduct, Breach of Peace, or Assault in the Third Degree. It’s one of the most effective ways to avoid a criminal record after a domestic violence arrest.

• No prior convictions for family violence
• No use of a similar program in the past
• The offense did not involve serious physical injury or use of a weapon

• Nine weekly educational classes (90 minutes each)
• Focus on conflict resolution, communication, and anger management
• Mandatory compliance with all court conditions

After successful completion, the judge dismisses the case and the record is erased. You can lawfully state that you have never been convicted of a crime arising from that incident.

Because the court has discretion in granting this program, I always prepare a comprehensive mitigation package — including background information, employment records, and letters of support — to help the court understand that you’re a responsible person who deserves a second chance.

Protective orders are often the most stressful part of a domestic violence case because they can separate families and disrupt daily life. Many clients tell me that after a few days, everyone wants to move on — but the court order still keeps them apart.

Fortunately, protective orders can be modified once circumstances improve. The process typically involves:

• Filing a motion to modify through your attorney.
• Appearing at a short court hearing where both sides can be heard.
• Demonstrating that the protected person supports modification and that no new incidents have occurred.

Courts are more willing to ease restrictions when the accused has complied with all court orders, attended counseling, and shown genuine progress. I often work with Family Relations and the alleged victim’s counsel to prepare a joint request that presents the modification in the best possible light.

Domestic violence is not a single offense — it’s a category applied to many underlying charges, including:

• Disorderly Conduct (C.G.S. § 53a-182) – The most common charge, usually for loud arguments or minor scuffles.
• Breach of Peace in the Second Degree (C.G.S. § 53a-181) – Covers shouting, threats, or causing alarm in public.
• Assault in the Third Degree (C.G.S. § 53a-61) – For intentionally or recklessly causing minor injuries.
• Criminal Mischief (C.G.S. § 53a-116) – Damaging property during a dispute.
• Violation of Protective Order (C.G.S. § 53a-223) – A felony charge for any contact or communication that breaches a standing court order.

These cases vary widely in severity, from simple misunderstandings to serious allegations — but all deserve an immediate, thoughtful defense.

Every family violence case is different. My defense strategy focuses on uncovering the truth and finding the most direct path to a dismissal. Typical defense approaches include:

1. Examining the 911 Call and Statements – Police often rely on partial or emotional statements made in the heat of the moment. Reviewing the full 911 recording frequently reveals inconsistencies.
2. Highlighting Mutual or Defensive Conduct – Connecticut law recognizes the concept of dual arrest. If both parties acted in self-defense or mutual aggression, charges can often be reduced or dismissed.
3. Negotiating Early Protective-Order Reductions – Through careful communication with the prosecutor and Family Relations, I often obtain a reduction from full no-contact to partial orders within days of the first appearance.
4. Building a Strong Mitigation Package – Showing responsibility, therapy attendance, or community service can persuade the court to grant FVEP or dismiss the case outright.
5. Preparing for Trial When Necessary – If your case cannot be resolved through diversion or negotiation, I am fully prepared to present your defense to a jury and protect your rights in court.

I have handled hundreds of domestic violence cases arising from New Canaan and surrounding Fairfield County towns. My approach is always strategic, discreet, and focused on long-term outcomes — keeping families together and records clean.

Here’s how I guide you through the process:

• Immediate Case Review – I evaluate the police reports and interview you to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
• Early Court Preparation – I meet with Family Relations and the prosecutor to shape how your case is viewed from day one.
• Preparation of a Strong Mitigation Package – I assemble documentation showing your positive character, stable employment, and community reputation to support dismissal or program eligibility.
• Protective-Order Strategy – I handle motions to modify protective orders so families can reunite as soon as it’s safe and appropriate.
• Program Guidance and Compliance – If you’re admitted into FVEP, I ensure you understand each requirement so you can complete it successfully.
• Communication and Support – You deal directly with me — not an associate or paralegal — from start to finish.

For over three decades, I’ve defended clients charged with domestic violence in Fairfield County courts. My approach blends compassion with meticulous preparation. I understand that most of these cases stem from emotional misunderstandings, not criminal intent.

Clients choose me because:

• I know how Family Relations and Stamford GA-1 operate.
• I offer flat-fee representation and free consultations.
• I work directly with you at every step — no passing your case off.
• I fight for dismissals and protective-order modifications, not just plea deals.

Domestic violence cases are as much about protecting families as defending rights. My mission is to help you move forward — with your freedom, your record, and your family intact.

All cases are handled at Stamford Superior Court (GA-1), 123 Hoyt Street, Stamford, Connecticut.

It depends on the protective order issued at arraignment. Your lawyer can request modifications as circumstances change.

It’s a diversionary program for first-time offenders that leads to a dismissal and erasure of your record upon completion.

Only the court can modify or terminate a protective order. Even if the alleged victim agrees, you must file a motion and attend a hearing.

Any contact that violates the order can lead to a felony charge for violation of a protective order, even a simple text message.

If your case is dismissed through FVEP or otherwise, it will be erased — meaning it won’t appear on public background checks.

Yes. A skilled lawyer ensures your application is presented correctly, backed by mitigation materials, and supported by Family Relations.

If you’ve been arrested for domestic violence in New Canaan, take control of the situation before it controls you. With the right strategy, most cases can be resolved without a conviction.

Call (203) 357-5555 or visit my contact page for a free confidential consultation. I’ll help you protect your rights, your reputation, and your family’s future.