Matt Horeczko - What Happens If Someone Violates A Restraining Order?

Restraining orders, sometimes called orders of protection, are binding legal orders issued by courts, says Matt Horeczko. Typically, they are issued when someone has threatened to endanger, harassed, or used violence against another party.

If You Violate A Restraining Order

When someone is subjected to a restraining order, anger, fear, or both can lead to both parties feeling the need to reach out to the other party. Fortunately, restraining orders are rarely violated. It is now easier than ever to send someone a text, message them on social media, or give them a call. While sending an innocent text message may not seem like a violation, it certainly is if "no contact" is part of your order.

Irrespective of whether the person initiating contact is doing so to make amends or in retaliation, it is against the law.

Typical Consequences for Restraining Order Violation

If you violate an order of protection, you may be facing fines, jail time, or both. Restraining order violations are generally misdemeanors, but in some cases, they may become felonies. For example, if you violate an order of protection in conjunction with another crime, such as vandalism or assault, many jurisdictions will elevate the charges.

The aggressor could face a year in jail and fines as high as a few thousand dollars if it's a misdemeanor. If it's a felony, the aggressor could spend five years in prison and pay substantial fines.

Enforcing a Restraining Order

If a restraining order is violated in any manner, the victim should maintain a copy of it at all times. This way, in the event, that it is violated, the victim can immediately show the protective order to the responding police officers. For the order to have any effect, the victim must strictly enforce it.

Although a restraining order is just a simple piece of paper, it is legally binding, according to Matt Horeczko. Violation of the order may result in serious consequences for the restrained individual.