If you feel unsafe or you believe your children could be in danger, you will want to do everything possible to protect yourself and seek a resolution to your ongoing concerns. Living with the threat of harm or the possibility of something happening to your children can be a stressful and difficult process to navigate. This situation can be overwhelming, but there are legal steps you can take that will allow you to protect yourself and regain your peace of mind.
One of the options that may be available to you is a restraining order or order of protection. These orders could prohibit a specific individual from coming within a certain distance of you, doing certain things or threatening you. Seeking a protective order is a common step in cases involving domestic violence and complex family law matters. If you are concerned about your safety, you may benefit from learning if you qualify and how to obtain one.
Protect yourself from abuse
If someone is threatening you, you will find it helpful to learn about the specific ways you can be proactive and take back control of your life. Protective orders can restore your peace of mind and help you feel safe once again. In situations where the threat of harm is imminent, a short-term emergency order may be appropriate. With a protection order, there are different provisions available, including the following:
- Peaceful contact provision
- Stay-away provision
- Move-out provision
- Counseling provision
- Firearms provision
- No-contact provision
In addition to a protective order, a restraining order may be appropriate. This is a type of lawsuit that requires a party to do or not do certain things. These types of orders are often part of family law cases, civil cases or divorces in Minnesota. If there is a violation of a protective order or restraining order, there may be serious penalties.
The best way forward
If you feel that you or your children are under threat of harm, it may be in your interests to explore the options you have regarding protective orders or a restraining order. Seeking knowledgeable guidance as soon as possible can provide insight regarding how you can pursue the most beneficial outcome to your situation. Your safety and the safety of your kids are the most important priority, and you have the right to pursue legal options that will allow you to feel safe again.