Minnesota Order for Protection & Harassment Restraining Order Attorney
An Order for Protection (O.F.P.) or Harassment Restraining Order (H.R.O.) is a court order prohibiting a person from committing acts of domestic abuse or harassing behavior against another person and/or their minor children. The Court can order a wide variety of restrictions upon the person subject to the restraining order, including:
o Refrain the person from committing acts of domestic abuse against the alleged victim;
o Exclude the person from entering the house of the alleged victim;
o Exclude the person from entering the place of employment of the alleged victim;
o Award temporary child custody and child support to the alleged victim;
o Require anger management and/or chemical dependency treatment;
o Refrain from ALL DIRECT (phone calls, email, text messages, letters, etc.) and INDIRECT (through a third party) communication between the person and the alleged victim.
o Other restrictions as the court deems appropriate.
Unwarranted Restraining Orders
People often seek a restraining order after being the victim of domestic abuse or harassment. They seek a court order to protect them from further harm. However, an O.F.P. or H.R.O. is sometimes sought by people seeking to punish a person. People often seek unwarranted restraining orders during divorce proceedings or child custody battles. Children may seek unwarranted restraining orders against their parents as a way to get back at them or exact revenge upon them. Some people seek restraining orders to exclude an individual from their place of employment simply because they do not like the person.
Fighting an Order for Protection or Harassment Restraining Order
Once a person has filed for an Order for Protection or Harassment Restraining Order, you have the right to a hearing in order to contest the allegations made in the restraining order. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to tell your side of the story and challenge the allegations made against you. You have the right to present favorable witnesses and evidence. These hearings can be very emotional and very complex. It is wise to have a Minnesota Restraining Order attorney on your side.
Violation of a Restraining Order – Penalties
The mere allegation by another person that you violated any terms of a restraining order can result in your arrest and being charged with a criminal offense. A violation of a restraining order can vary in the degree of charge – ranging from misdemeanor to felony. Possible penalties include, but are not limited to: jail or prison time, fines and courts fees, court ordered treatment and/or counseling, and probation. In addition to criminal penalties, a person who violates a restraining order may be negatively affected in a civil proceeding, such as a divorce or child custody proceeding.
The mere allegation by another person that you violated any terms of a restraining order can result in your arrest and being charged with a criminal offense. A violation of a restraining order can vary in the degree of charge – ranging from misdemeanor to felony. Possible penalties include, but are not limited to: jail or prison time, fines and courts fees, court ordered treatment and/or counseling, and probation. In addition to criminal penalties, a person who violates a restraining order may be negatively affected in a civil proceeding, such as a divorce or child custody proceeding.
If you, or someone you know, are facing the issuance of a restraining order or have been charged with violating a restraining order in Minnesota, you need to hire the services of a qualified, passionate and knowledgeable Minnesota criminal defense attorney who will be your voice in the criminal justice system – ensuring your valuable rights are being protected.
At the Law Offices of William K. Bulmer II, we have the experience to handle your restraining order case. We will provide you the sound legal guidance and counsel you need to fight your case. Call our Law Office today for a FREE, no obligation consultation at 612-384-7003.
For more information on issues involving restraining orders, click here.
