If you’re getting out of an abusive relationship, getting a protective order is one step you can take to protect yourself. These are legal documents that a Judge issues to keep a victim safe from threats, force, and violence.

Requirements for Filing

There are some requirements you must meet to show the judge that there’s adequate cause for the Restraining order. In many states, there’s a minimum age requirement that may be as low as 12 or as high as 18. You’ll need some kind of proof, such as specific written examples and tangible evidence.

Terms of the Order

If you’re successful at obtaining a protective order carroll county document, it may require the Offender to remain a specified distance away from you. It can also stipulate that the offender may not contact you or your friends, make phone calls during certain time frames, or show up at your workplace. The judge may order the offender not to purchase firearms and to pay certain bills and fees.

Getting Help to File

When you need help, ask a police officer, social worker, counselor, or shelter worker for support. Family and friends may agree to be part of your safety plan, as well. You will need to contact a court to file for the protective order. If you don’t know how to begin this process, talk to a police officer or step into your county courthouse and ask for help at the desk. If you and the offender live in different counties, you may need to file in both counties.

Types of Protection

There are different types of orders the judge can offer, such as ex parte, temporary restraining, no-contact, and domestic violence orders. An ex parte order is a temporary or emergency order. It can be revised to a no-contact order or long-term domestic restraining order as necessary.

These orders are just part of the process of getting out of an abusive relationship. You’ll also need to establish a safety net and work with professionals to remain safe.