Has a Minnesota judge issued an Order for Protection against you? If so, you need to know exactly what this requires of you. If you violate the Order for Protection, you could face criminal consequences.
An Order for Protection is commonly known as a Restraining Order in Minnesota. These orders often apply in pending domestic assault cases. Typically, an Order for Protection will be temporary at first. But, it can end up being enforced for up to two years or even longer.
While you are under an Order for Protection:
- You cannot possess a firearm.
- You generally cannot engage in communication or contact with the person or people the order was issued to protect; even if they initiate contact, you should not respond.
- You may be banned from your own property, including your house and car.
- You must meet other conditions, specific to your order.
Do not violate the Order for Protection, even if your accuser has recanted and wants to see or talk to you. You could face a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor or even a felony for doing so. These charges will be handled separately from your domestic violence case, potentially resulting in criminal penalties regardless of how the domestic assault charges are resolved.
If you are the Respondent in an Order for Protection, contact an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. Even if you were wrongly accused, being subject to a restraining order can cause great harm to you for years to come. These are red flags to judges who would handle any subsequent legal cases, like domestic assault charges, a child custody dispute or a divorce. Talk to an experienced lawyer about your options to clear your name and protect your future.
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