By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed January 11, 2023
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Courts issue protective orders for people who have reason to believe someone is a threat to their safety. These orders are also known as orders of protection or restraining orders. The person named in the order typically must stay a certain distance away from the individual obtaining it, while refraining from all other types of contact.
Protective orders may be issued for many reasons, but usually are granted to protect the victims of domestic violence or stalking. While restraining orders also may be used to protect celebrities from obsessive fans, such orders for celebrities are far less common.
If you're the victim of domestic abuse or have some other valid reason for obtaining a restraining order, go to your local courthouse and file for an order of protection.
Review the following chart for a breakdown of the basics around protective orders in Arkansas:
| Code Section | 9-15-101, et. al seq. |
| Activity Addressed by Order | The following are activities typically addressed in protective orders:
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| Duration of Order |
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| Penalty for a Violation of Order | Class A misdemeanor, which carries with it the following:
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| Who May Apply for Order | The following people may apply for an order:
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| Can Fees Be Waived? | There are no fees associated with the filing of the order. |
| Order Transmission to Law Enforcement | A copy is issued to a law enforcement officer who can accompany the petitioner to the petitioner's dwelling or assist in service of order to the abuser. |
| Civil Liability for Violation of Order | Civil contempt |
Note: State laws may change at any time, usually through the enactment of new statutes but occasionally through the issuance of higher court opinions or other means. You may want to contact an Arkansas criminal defense attorney or family law attorney. You might also want to conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Consider reviewing the following resources, if you would like to learn more about the laws of Arkansas:
Also consider reviewing the following, if you're interested in learning more about laws or issues related to orders of protection:
It's traumatic to be the victim of domestic violence. It's stressful to go through any legal process alone. When it comes to domestic violence and seeking orders of protection, it's likely victims feel overwhelmed. Consider seeking the assistance of a qualified family law attorney near you. They can help you navigate seeking orders of protection and other aspects of putting your life back on track.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Arkansas attorneys offer free consultations.