What is an Order for Protection (OFP)?
An Order for Protection (OFP) is a special kind of restraining order for victims of domestic abuse. It is issued by Family Court to protect a person from abuse by family, a household member, or a significant other. “Abuse” includes everything from actual physical or sexual abuse to verbal threats of abuse. Who is eligible for an Order for Protection? You may file an OFP if you have recently (generally within one year) been a victim of domestic violence. Domestic violence is defined as any act of abuse, including pushing, shoving, grabbing, slapping, punching, pulling hair, kicking, forcing sexual acts, or threatening with a weapon. You are eligible if you and the person who has abused you: • are married or used to be married • are related by blood (including parents, children, and grandparents) • are unmarried persons who either live together, have lived together, or have had a significant romantic or sexual relationship • have a child in common (or are expecting a child together) rega
