What happens if you break a protection order?
Asked by: Elisabeth Cassin | Last update: September 13, 2025Score: 4.8/5 (74 votes)
Violation of a restraining order is deemed as contempt of court, or a willful disobedience of a court order. The violation may result in a mark on your record. It may also result in criminal charges, criminal conviction, or fines.
What violates a protective order in Indiana?
Physical Proximity: Approaching or going near the protected person, their home, workplace, or any other place specified in the restraining order. Threats or Intimidation: Making threats or engaging in behavior that intimidates or harasses the protected person, even if it's not direct contact.
How long does a restraining order last in Hawaii?
A temporary restraining order (TRO) is valid for 180 days from the time the TRO is granted and filed. unless otherwise ordered by the court. If you want to extend the TRO, an Order to Show Cause (OSC) hearing is required.
How long does a restraining order last in NH?
If the judge decides that there was abuse and that there is also a credible threat to the plaintiff's safety, a final order of protection will be granted and will last for up to one year.
What happens if you violate a restraining order in MA?
Upon breaking the terms of a restraining order, a judge may sentence the individual to a maximum of two and a half years in jail and impose a fine of up to $5,000. The individual will also likely be required to complete a batterer's program, which is a program to intervene on domestic abusers.
TRUTH About RESTRAINING ORDERS that will SAVE YOUR LIFE
Can you fight a restraining order in Massachusetts?
It is extremely difficult to challenge a restraining order, but it is possible. No matter what the circumstances are, you need to fight a false restraining order issued with the help of an experienced attorney at the Bellotti Law Group, P.C.
How long does a restraining order stay on your record in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, while a restraining order is a civil order, it appears on your criminal record permanently.
What happens if you violate a restraining order in NH?
If the abuser knowingly violates a protective order in any way, it is a class A misdemeanor crime. You should report any violations to the police. The police will decide whether to arrest and prosecute him/her.
What is the difference between a no contact order and a protection order?
Protection orders are generally in place when there is no pending criminal case. However, in many cases, a person will seek a protection order prior to a situation where law enforcement gets involved. Then, later, when a criminal act occurs a no contact order is then requested by the prosecutor.
How long do you have to put a restraining order on someone?
Generally speaking, there is no deadline to file for a restraining order. If you feel your safety is in danger, contact law enforcement immediately. But, keep in mind that the earlier you request the order after a domestic violence incident or crime, the better.
Why do restraining orders expire?
Restraining orders have expiration dates to ensure that they are still necessary. The court wants to make sure that the situation has not changed and that protection is still needed. When an order expires, the protected person can request a renewal if they still feel threatened.
What happens if the petitioner does not show up to a restraining order hearing?
If you miss your court hearing for a temporary restraining order in California, the court may dismiss your request for the order due to your absence. When a petitioner does not show up, the court often interprets this as a lack of interest or necessity in pursuing the restraining order.
How do you break a protective order?
- Coming too close to the alleged victim. ...
- Contacting the alleged victim. ...
- Failing to move out of your home. ...
- Visiting your shared workplace or school. ...
- Failing to pay bills. ...
- Failing to comply with child visitation rules. ...
- Purchasing or possessing a gun.
Does texting violate a restraining order?
Contact Restrictions & Prohibited Behaviors
One of the primary restrictions imposed by a restraining order in California is prohibiting any form of contact between the individual subject to the order and the protected person. Contact can include direct communication, such as: Phone calls. Text messages.
How will the court find out if you violate a no contact order?
Oftentimes, the court has only read a police report or declaration written by the alleged victim. If it is a criminal matter, your attorney has advised you to remain silent so you do not implicate yourself – even though there may be a strong desire to try and “set the record straight.”
Can I get penalized for contacting someone I have a restraining order against?
Violation of a Restraining Order can result in arrest and time in jail.
How does a protective order work in Indiana?
Enjoin the Respondent from threatening to commit or committing acts of domestic or family violence against the Petitioner and each designated family or household member. Prohibit the Respondent from harassing, annoying, telephoning, contacting, or directly or indirectly communicating with the Petitioner.
What to say in court for a restraining order?
“I would consider any contact in the future to be a violation.” Tell the court why you would like the temporary restraining order injunction. Examples: “I want this injunction because…” “I fear for my child's safety.” “My child's life is in danger, I am afraid he or she will be hurt…”
What is the longest restraining order?
The longest restraining order is a restraining order for life. This order may be granted in certain domestic violence cases. A judge decides if the order is necessary to protect the victim from harm.
What is the penalty for breaking a restraining order in Massachusetts?
Criminal Consequences for Violating a Restraining Order in MA. If a person violates a 209A restraining order in Massachusetts, the consequences might include: 2.5 years in jail; A fine of up to $5,000; or/and.
Do restraining orders show up on background checks in Massachusetts?
While neither a restraining order (209A) or a harassment prevention order (258E) will appear on your criminal record, it is important to note that there is a separate record kept for restraining orders in Massachusetts.
How does a restraining order affect you in Massachusetts?
A major consequence is that the restraining order is likely to require you, the Defendant, to leave your home, if you live with the person who receives the order. If you have children, a restraining order could prevent you from getting custody of or having visitation with your children.
How do I get rid of a restraining order in Massachusetts?
What if I want to change or end the order? An abuse prevention order is a court order. That means that only a judge can change the order. The person who requested the order can't change or end the order without contacting the court and asking the judge to change the order.
What is the burden of proof for a restraining order in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the burden of proof for obtaining a restraining order, whether it's an Abuse Prevention Order under Chapter 209A, or a Harassment Prevention Order under Chapter 258E, is a “preponderance of the evidence.” This means you must demonstrate that it is more likely than not that you have been subjected to ...