What Effect Does an Order of Protection or an Injunction Against Harassment have?
The Judge has the authority to:
- Order one party to not commit acts of domestic violence,
- Grant one party exclusive possession of residence (only on an Order of Protection).
- Order one party to not go near the residence, place of employment, school, or other specified locations of the other party.
- Order other relief as necessary to protect the alleged victim or other persons. Adults living at separate addresses will not normally be included unless they are present and requesting to be included.
The Judge does not have the authority to render custody orders, order parties to obtain counseling, resolve property disputes, or fashion an Order of Protection affecting any visitation rights. These types of relief are appropriate for review by the Superior Court.