Eligibility Criteria

If you are a partner or family member, you are eligible for an Order of Protection:
  • If you have been physically hurt or afraid you are about to be physically hurt by your partner or family member
  • The offenses, which qualify, include assaults, including what was formerly called domestic abuse, intimidation, endangerment, arson, unlawful restraint, and kidnapping

If you are not a partner or family member, you are eligible for an Order of Protection:
  • A victim of assault as defined in 45-5-201, aggravated assault as defined in 45-5-202, assault on a minor as defined in 45-5-212, stalking as defined in 45-5-220, incest as defined in 45-5-507, sexual assault as defined in 45-5-502, sexual intercourse without consent as defined in 45-5-503, sexual abuse of children as defined in 45-5-625, or human trafficking as defined in 45-5-701

  •  A partner or family member of a victim of homicide will qualify.  There is no requirement that the incident has to be reported to law enforcement

Minors:
  • If you are a minor, your parent or guardian, or other representative may file a petition for a Temporary Order of Protection on your behalf against the Respondent.  The Court may appoint a guardian ad litem for a minor Petitioner.  Adults, however, need to each apply individually for their own Order of Protection.

For More Information, please read the Order of Protection Sheet Below:

 

Order of Protection Information Sheet