Harassment and stalking can be terrifying experiences that can 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).
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 harassment.
A Harassment Restraining Order (HRO) is an order signed by a judicial officer (judge or referee) that orders someone to stop harassing you and have no contact, unless allowed in the court order. It is not a criminal proceeding and takes place in civil court.
An OFP, on the other hand, is a court order that provides protection to victims of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is defined as physical harm, bodily injury, or the infliction of fear of physical harm, bodily injury, or death, between family or household members. An OFP can provide a variety of protections, including prohibiting contact between the victim and the abuser, ordering the abuser to leave the victim’s home, and awarding temporary custody of children to the victim.
To obtain an HRO or OFP, you must file a petition with the court in the county where you live or where the harassment occurred. The petition must detail the specific incidents of harassment or domestic abuse and explain why you need the order to protect yourself. If the court grants the order, the person who is the subject of 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.
If you are considering obtaining an HRO or OFP, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help you understand the legal process, file the necessary paperwork, and represent you in court. At Judith Samson, Attorney at Law, we have extensive experience helping clients obtain HROs and OFPs in Minnesota. Our attorneys understand the complexities of the legal system and are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients.
If you are experiencing harassment or domestic abuse and need legal help, contact Judith Samson, Attorney at Law today. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have. Our criminal defense attorneys are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to those who need it most.
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.
