What is a Protective Order?
A protective order is a civil court order issued to prevent continuing acts of family violence, sexual assault, human trafficking or stalking.
Family violence (sometimes called Domestic Violence) is basically defined as (1) any act by one member of a family or household intended to physically harm another member, (2) a serious threat of physical harm, or (3) the abuse of a child.
Family includes blood relatives or relatives by marriage, former spouses, parents (married or not) of the same child, foster parents and foster children, or any member or former member of a household (people living in the same house, related or not).

Show All Answers

1. What is a Protective Order?
2. How can a Protective Order help?
3. Who is eligible for a Protective Order?
4. How can I get a Protective Order?
5. Who may file for a Protective Order?
6. What information do I need to provide?
7. What does it cost?
8. How long does it take to receive and how long does it remain in effect?
9. What happens if the Protective Order is violated?
10. What other options are available?