In the past, domestic violence was often dismissed as a private family matter. Fortunately, today Minnesota law takes domestic abuse seriously, and alleged victims have strong protections available. One of the most important legal tools is an Order for Protection (OFP).
An OFP allows victims to quickly obtain court-ordered protection from an abuser. The person filing for protection is called the Petitioner, while the person accused of abuse is the Respondent.
What is an Order for Protection?
An OFP is a court order that can forbid the Respondent from:
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Entering the family home
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Making any contact with the Petitioner, either in person, by phone, email, or through third parties
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Spending time with minor children
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Accessing personal property in the family home
The Petitioner has the right to request the restrictions that best protect their safety and the safety of their children.
It is free to file an OFP, and although you do not need an attorney to file, having an experienced lawyer by your side ensures your petition is thorough and gives you the strongest chance of success.
Who Can File for an Order for Protection?
Petitioners may apply for an OFP to protect themselves and/or their minor children. Under Minnesota law, an OFP is available when domestic abuse occurs between people who are “family or household members,” which includes:
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Current or former spouses (same-sex or opposite-sex)
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Parents, children, siblings, grandparents, or others related by blood or adoption
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People who live together or have lived together (intimate partners or roommates)
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Parents who share a child together
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A pregnant woman and the alleged father
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Individuals in a current or past romantic or sexual relationship
How Long Does an Order for Protection Last?
An OFP typically lasts up to two years. If the Respondent violates the order, or if there are serious circumstances, the order may be extended for a much longer period — even up to 50 years in some cases.
Domestic Abuse Defined in Minnesota
Domestic abuse can include:
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Physical harm (punching, shoving, choking, kicking, stabbing, shooting)
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Threats of harm (e.g., “I’m going to kill you”)
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Throwing objects at someone
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Locking someone in a room
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Interfering with an emergency call (such as calling 911)
Orders for Protection vs. Harassment Restraining Orders
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Orders for Protection (OFPs): Available when domestic abuse occurs between family or household members.
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Harassment Restraining Orders (HROs): Used when the parties do not have a qualifying relationship (e.g., co-workers, neighbors, acquaintances).
What Happens After You File?
When you file for an OFP:
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A judge may immediately issue a temporary OFP the same day you file.
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The Respondent is served with the paperwork.
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A hearing may be scheduled where both sides can appear.
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If the judge finds sufficient evidence, a long-term OFP will be granted.
Violating an OFP is a crime, and law enforcement can arrest the Respondent for any violation.
Protecting Your Family and Your Future
An OFP can provide vital relief for victims by:
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Creating a safe living environment for you and your children
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Preventing further threats, intimidation, or abuse
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Establishing temporary custody and visitation restrictions
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Protecting pets and personal property
Work with an Experienced OFP Attorney in Minneapolis
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, don’t wait. Attorney Judith Samson has over 20 years of experience helping Minnesotans secure Orders for Protection and keep their families safe. She provides compassionate, strategic guidance through every step of the process.
Call (612) 333-8001 or email [email protected] today for a free, confidential consultation. Judith Samson serves clients across Minnesota and is available 24/7.
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.
