If you are worried about abuse or are suffering from abuse that is perpetrated by someone that you know, there are laws in place to protect you in North Carolina. It is important, therefore, that you take action to protect yourself and your loved ones.
It is possible to seek a temporary civil restraining order in North Carolina. This can be done by anyone who is being abused physically or emotionally. The restraining order does not mean that you are trying to get the perpetrator of the abuse sent to jail, but instead, you are simply making sure that you get relief from the abuse.
Is a Domestic Violence Protective Order the same as a restraining order?
A temporary restraining order is a general term used across the United States, however in North Carolina specifically, it is known as a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO).
Who can I take out a DVPO against?
Many people believe that a DVPO can only be made against someone that you have been involved in a romantic relationship with; however, this is simply not the case. A DVPO can be taken out against anyone that you have been in a domestic relationship with. A domestic relationship could be a parent-child relationship, a sibling relationship, or a roommate relationship.
How can a DVPO protect me?
A DVPO can prohibit all contact between you and the perpetrator. It will mean that if the order is broken, the perpetrator could be jailed.
You should make sure that you and your loved ones are protected from abuse by understanding your rights in North Carolina.