Legal Definitions - protection order

A protection order, also known as a restraining order, is a court order that prohibits family violence. It restricts a person from harassing, threatening, or contacting another specified person. This type of order is commonly issued in cases of domestic violence.

• A woman who has been physically abused by her partner can obtain a protection order to prevent him from coming near her or contacting her.
• A man who has been stalked by his ex-girlfriend can obtain a restraining order to prevent her from following him or contacting him.

These examples illustrate how a protection order can be used to protect individuals from further harm by restricting the actions of the abuser or stalker.

A temporary restraining order is a court order entered to prevent the dissipation or loss of property. It is different from a protection order, which is used to prevent family violence.