A Protection Order, sometimes referred to as a Restraining Order, is a court-issued order used to protect victims against domestic violence, harassment, stalking or assault.
If you have experienced abuse or stalking, we highly encourage you to seek a Protection Order. Remember, no physical abuse needs to have taken place in order to apply for one. Protection Orders are a Civil Court action. There do not need to be any pending criminal charges or reports made.
With a Protection Order, the Judge can set limits to the allowable actions of the respondant, such as:
Official order to stop abusing/stalking you
Ordering them to leave the household
Setting a distance to keep from you, your children, home and workplace (typically 500 ft)
No contact order by all means of communication, including third party
How Do I File For One?
Although a Protection Order does not guarantee that the abusive behavior will stop, protection orders have been proven to be relatively effective in domestic violence situations. There is no fee to get a Protection Order and they can be granted for up to 5 years.
The state of South Dakota has two types of protection orders: Domestic Protection Order Stalking Protection Order We know these forms can be overwhelming and confusing, that is why we are here to help! Call us to schedule a time to come in so we can help you complete the form and answer any questions you may have. Office Phone: 605-665-4811 from 8:30am-5:00pm
