A protection order is a court order that seeks to increase safety for survivors of sexual assault, dating/domestic violence and stalking. You can receive a protection order mandating that the abuser stay away from you. Protection orders can be obtained through criminal courts and through civil courts. Protection orders issued through the criminal court only last throughout the duration of the criminal case. Protection orders issued through civil court can last much longer. There are different types of civil protection orders. SAP advocates can assist you with obtaining protection orders.
