Restraining Orders In Virginia, Maryland & Massachusetts – What Are They?
A restraining order (sometimes known as an injunction) is a court order to an individual demanding that they refrain or stop doing certain acts. The order itself is literally a legal document signed by a judge telling the individual in question what action or actions to cease doing or face the legal consequences. There are many reasons a restraining order may be issued. Here are some of the more common: • Stalking • Domestic violence • Harassment • Physical/Sexual abuse • Preventing the wrongful transfer of real property, also called fraudulent conveyance By far, the main purpose of restraining orders is to offer legal protection to victims of domestic abuse, harassment, stalking, and neighborhood disputes. A parent or guardian can apply for a restraining order on behalf of a minor child. There are basically three types of restraining orders: Emergency Protective Order, Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), and Permanent Restraining Order.