What is Protective Order?
A court order that requires one person to stay away from another, often issued in cases of domestic violence, harassment, or stalking.
Understanding Protective Order
Protective orders (also called restraining orders) can prohibit contact, require distance, award temporary custody, and mandate surrender of firearms. Violations are criminal offenses. Emergency orders can be obtained quickly without the other party present.
Examples
- 1No-contact order after domestic violence
- 2Stay-away order requiring 100-foot distance
- 3Emergency protective order issued same day
Related Terms
Domestic Violence
A pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner.
Divorce
The legal dissolution of a marriage by a court or other competent body, ending the marital relationship and dividing assets, debts, and responsibilities.
Child Custody
The legal arrangement determining where children will live and who will make important decisions about their upbringing after parents separate or divorce.
Alimony
Court-ordered financial support paid by one spouse to the other during or after divorce, also known as spousal support or maintenance.
Child Support
Ongoing payments made by a non-custodial parent to help cover the costs of raising their child, typically continuing until the child reaches adulthood.
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