How Long Do Protective Orders Last in Indiana?
After being served with a protective order in Indiana, the provisions kick in immediately. The provisions within these orders are not only immediate, but they are also extremely personal. The order may prohibit you from contacting someone, or multiple people, you love and care about. It may also limit where you go, impact your job, and interfere with your parental rights. While a protective order is very serious, it does not mean the provisions are permanent. Our Indianapolis civil protective order lawyers explain how long one may last below.
What is a Protective Order?
In Indiana, protective orders are intended to prevent cases of domestic violence, harassment, stalking, and sex crimes. A protective order bans contact between you, known as the respondent, and the petitioner, the person asking for protection. This often means you cannot:
- Call the petitioner
- Send the petitioner social media messages or texts
- Use third parties to contact the petitioner on your behalf
- Show up at the petitioner’s school, work, or home
If a protective order has already been issued against you, or you fear one, it is critical to get legal guidance immediately.
How Long Do Protective Orders Last in Indiana?
Once issued, a protective order has a duration of two years in Indiana. Once the two-year period ends, the protective order will automatically expire unless the petitioner has successfully asked for an extension.
When are Protective Orders Extended?
If, after two years, the petitioner still believes a legitimate threat exists, they can ask the court to extend the order. Again, this does not mean it will automatically happen. A judge will review the request and may schedule a hearing. During the hearing, the judge will hear from both sides before determining whether an extension is necessary. When deciding whether to extend an order, they will consider:
- Evidence of ongoing threats or harassment
- Any new violations or criminal charges
- Continued emotional distress or fear caused by the respondent
If the judge determines that there is a credible threat, the judge can extend the order for additional years.
Our Civil Protection Order Lawyers in Indianapolis Can Advise on Your Case
Being served with a protection order is very stressful. However, it does not mean that your life will be forever changed. You may be able to challenge the order, fight a request for an extension, or even have the order modified. At Rigney Law, LLC, our Indianapolis civil protection order lawyers can advise you of your legal options, ensure that you remain in compliance with any existing terms, and give you the best chance of a successful outcome. Call us today at 317-623-0989 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
in.gov/courts/iocs/publications/po-forms/