Harassment and stalking can be terrifying experiences that make you feel unsafe and threatened. If you are experiencing harassment or stalking in Minnesota, it is important to know that you have legal options available to protect yourself. One such option is obtaining a Harassment Restraining Order (HRO) or an Order for Protection (OFP).
What is a Harassment Restraining Order?
Under Minnesota law, an HRO is a court order that prohibits a person from engaging in harassing behavior towards you. Harassment is defined as conduct that is intended to cause fear, intimidation, or distress, and that serves no legitimate purpose. This can include stalking, repeated unwanted phone calls, and other forms of intrusive behavior.
An HRO is signed by a judicial officer (judge or referee) and orders someone to stop harassing you and have no contact, unless specifically allowed in the court order. While it is a civil court process, violating an HRO is a crime and can lead to arrest, fines, and jail time.
What is an Order for Protection?
An OFP is a court order that provides protection to victims of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse includes physical harm, bodily injury, or the infliction of fear of harm or death between family or household members.
An OFP can:
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Prohibit contact between the victim and the abuser
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Order the abuser to leave the victim’s home
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Grant temporary custody of children to the victim
How to Obtain an HRO or OFP
To obtain an HRO or OFP, you must file a petition with the court in the county where you live or where the harassment or abuse occurred. The petition must detail the specific incidents and explain why you need the order for protection.
If granted, the person named in the order will be prohibited from contacting you or coming near you. Violating an HRO or OFP can result in criminal charges and penalties, including fines and jail time.
Why Work with an Experienced Restraining Order Attorney?
Filing for an HRO or OFP can be intimidating, especially when you are already dealing with the stress of harassment or abuse. An experienced restraining order attorney can:
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Help you prepare and file the paperwork
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Ensure your petition clearly outlines your situation
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Represent you in court and advocate for your safety
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Answer your questions and guide you through the process with compassion
At Judith Samson, Attorney at Law, we have extensive experience helping clients obtain HROs and OFPs in Minnesota. We are dedicated to protecting victims of harassment and domestic abuse and making sure their voices are heard in court.
Contact Judith Samson Today
If you are experiencing harassment, stalking, or domestic abuse, don’t wait to seek help. Attorney Judith Samson offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case, explain your legal options, and help you take the steps needed to protect yourself and your family.
Call (612) 333-8001 or contact us online today. Judith is available 24/7 and serves clients across Minnesota.
Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.
