If you don’t understand the finer details of a family law protection order, now is the time to learn more. This is something that could work in your favor if there is a risk of family violence surrounding your current situation.
You have the right to apply for a family law protection order from a family member, such as:
- Somebody you are currently married to
- Somebody you were previously married to
- Somebody you live with
- Your child’s legal guardian or parent
- A relative of anybody who lives with them
- A relative of yours who resides in the same home
- Your own child
Many people have a hard time with this subject matter because they don’t know how to define “family violence.” This can include the following:
- Abuse of you or a family member including sexually, emotionally, psychologically, or physically.
- Exposing your child to any type of family violence
- Damaging your property
- Stalking or following
With a family law protection order in place, the person is told to:
- Not make contact with you or any other family member
- To stay away from your home, school, and/or place of employment
- Not to follow you or other family members
You may not want to file for a family law protection order, but this could be one of the best moves you make as it can lead to improved safety. Knowing what this means and how it can work in your favor will allow you to make an informed decision.
Source: Legal Services Society, “Family Law Protection Orders,” accessed Jan. 05, 2016