If your partner or ex accuses you of domestic violence and requests a protection order, that order can significantly limit your freedom and opportunities while they are valid. An order may require you to stay away from your family. It may prevent you from owning any firearms or ammunition or move out of the home you shared with your partner.
Any amount of time under these restrictions can be a challenge, and those restrictions can last for days, weeks or even years. The amount of time that this order could restrict your rights and freedom depends on the type of order restraining you.
Emergency Protection Orders
After someone contacts the authorities with accusations of domestic violence, the officer can request an emergency protection order. This type of protection order goes into effect immediately and will last for five to seven days.
Temporary Protection Orders
If the court believes that your partner or ex needs protection before your hearing, they may give your partner or ex a temporary restraining order. These orders are usually valid for 20 to 25 days, depending on your situation.
Final Protection Orders
If the court finds you guilty of domestic violence, the judge may put a final protection order in place. This order can restrict your rights and movement for up to five years, and the court can extend that time even further once those five years are over.
How can you protect yourself from a protection order?
The best way to defend your freedom from the restrictions of these orders, it can be particularly important to contact an experienced attorney to build your defense. Your attorney can work to make your voice heard and protect your rights.
