Domestic violence consists of violence within the family.    Anyone seeking a protective order need not be married or residing with the person who they seek the order against.  If they share a child or have some other family relationship, they can seek a protective order.  For dating violence where the parties do not share a child or do not meet one of the other requirements for a protective order, one may seek a peace order.

Protective Orders are available 24 hours a day.   If the court is closed, one may seek an interim order at the Commissioner's Office in your county.   This order is good for 2 business days after the court re-opens.   

Grounds for a Protective Order are:
  • Serious bodily harm
  • Threats of serious bodily harm
  • Rape
  • Attempted Rape
  • Assault in any degree
  • False Imprisonment
  • Stalking
Final Protective Order can be issued for up to one year.   Peace Orders can be issued for up to 6 months. 

The process can be intimidating, especially if your abuser has told you no one will believe you.   You should consult an attorney to determine how best to obtain a protective or peace order.    For an overview of what to expect in the process, click the button below for your free download about the protective order process. 

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