WHAT HAPPENS TO A PROTECTIVE ORDER WHEN DIVORCE IS FILED?
Sometimes a couple’s separation will begin when one spouse files a protective order in the District Court under RSA 173-B. In that case, you have a choice of seeking assistance from the local District or Family Court or of requesting the protective order as part of the divorce case in the Superior Court (RSA 458-16). While it is possible to request a protective order as part of your final divorce decree (RSA 458-16), it is in your best interest to seek protection under RSA 173-B. A domestic violence protective order offers you more protection than an order obtained through a divorce. In addition, police officers cannot respond to the violation of a protective order obtained through a divorce; they can only take action if the protective order has been sought under RSA 173-B. If your divorce is already pending in the Superior Court, it is best to seek a 173-B protective order from the Superior Court. This saves everyone from the often confusing and difficult situation of having two diffe
