What other options are available?
A Magistrate's Order for Emergency Protection may be issued at the time of a defendant's appearance before a magistrate after arrest for an offense involving family violence, sexual assault, human trafficking or stalking. The order for emergency protection may be issued on the magistrate's own motion or on the request of:
1. the victim;
2. guardian of the victim;
3. a peace officer; or
4. the attorney representing the State.
A Magistrate's Order for Emergency Protection may prohibit the arrested offender from committing any further acts of family violence, communicating with a member of the family or household or the person named in the order, or making any threats or going near the place of employment, household or business of a member of the household or of the person named. The offender may also be restricted from going near a school or day care facility. The victim does not have to be present in court when the order is issued.
A violation of this order may be punishable by a fine of as much as $4,000 or by confinement in jail for up to one year or both.
Remember, if someone has physically assaulted or threatened you; contact your local police department or sheriff's office to press charges against that person. Even if you are ineligible for a protective order, you may be able to have the person arrested for assault, criminal trespass, or stalking.

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?