We have all gotten into arguments with our loved ones before. When disagreements escalate to the point where one person fears for his or her safety, the police can intervene, and domestic violence charges may be pressed. Domestic violence is estimated by the National Domestic Violence Hotline to affect more than 12 million people each year. It can occur between parents and children, siblings, spouses, or people in romantic relationships who live together. Accusations of this type of violence can involve a variety of alleged behaviors, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. One tool that is frequently used in domestic violence cases is an order of protection, and a person who is subject to this type of order should understand what it may entail and the potential consequences for a violation.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An order of protection is a court order that can prohibit a person from doing certain things, and it may also compel a person to meet certain requirements. For example, a person accused of domestic violence may be ordered to stop any contact with their alleged victim, or one partner involved in a domestic dispute may be required to leave their shared residence.
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