When an individual feels for his or her safety in a domestic situation, options exist to help one feel better protected. Wisconsin residents who fear that their physical safety may be at risk can apply for restraining orders. These orders can be issued to anyone who fears domestic violence — including those who are dating.
Domestic violence can include one or more of these acts:
- Sexual contact that is deemed criminal
- Assault
- Falsely imprisoning someone
- Burglary
- Restraint that is deemed criminal
- Trespassing that is deemed criminal
- Harassing someone
- Homicide
- Kidnapping
- Lewd behavior
- Stalking
- Sexual assault
The purpose of a restraining order
A judge can issue an Order of Protection against an alleged abuser that spells out what that person can and cannot do when it comes to the individual who requested the order. If the person violates the order in any way, the police could arrest him or her. Restraining orders set out to accomplish a number of things such as:
- Keeping the alleged abuser away from the alleged victim. That means no phone calls, messages or other communication methods;
- The person may be ordered to leave the place of residence if the two people have been living together;
- The person who requested the order will likely be granted custody of any minor children;
- The alleged abuser may be ordered to get help for anger issues or domestic violence counseling;
- Police may be given the authority by a judge to remove the alleged abuser from the home along with his or her personal items.
Restraining orders may be necessary in some tense situations. The court also recognizes that written and verbal abuse could constitute as domestic violence. Wisconsin residents who fear for their safety or the safety of their children because of another’s actions might consider speaking to an attorney about obtaining a restraining order.
