What is a restraining order?

A restraining order is a legal order issued by a court that requires a person to stop engaging in certain activities. In Minnesota, restraining orders are also known as orders for protection or OFP, and are issued to protect someone from being physically abused, threatened, or stalked. Restraining orders can be issued by a judge after someone files a petition and presents evidence that they have been the victim of physical violence, threats, harassment, or other forms of domestic abuse. Once issued, the restraining order will prohibit the respondent from doing certain things, such as contacting the petitioner, coming within a certain distance of the petitioner, or possessing a firearm. The person who is the subject of the restraining order must obey the order’s terms, or they may face criminal charges. The restraining order may also be enforced by law enforcement, who may arrest the restrained person if they violate the terms of the order. The restraining order can also have other requirements. For example, the restrained person may be ordered to attend a treatment program, to stay away from the petitioner’s home or workplace, or to pay child support or spousal maintenance. The order may also provide for other forms of relief, such as requiring the restrained person to pay for therapist visits or provide health insurance for the petitioner.

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