What is the difference between a civil and a criminal restraining order?

The difference between a civil and a criminal restraining order is the type of court that issues it. A civil restraining order is issued in civil court and is used to prevent parties in a dispute from coming into contact with one another or from engaging in certain activities. A criminal restraining order is issued in criminal court and it is used to protect someone from an abuser. A civil restraining order is a civil injunction that is issued by a court to protect a party, or parties, from further abuse or interference. It can be issued in cases of domestic abuse, elder abuse, animal cruelty, stalking, or harassment. It will typically order the restrained party to keep a distance from the protected party and it may also include orders to refrain from contacting them in any way. A criminal restraining order is issued by a criminal court, often after a criminal conviction. It is issued with the intent of protecting an individual from the criminal behavior of another. A criminal restraining order orders the restrained party to stay away from the protected party, to not contact them in any way, and to stay away from their place of residence or work. Both civil and criminal restraining orders are important tools for ensuring the safety of those who may be in danger from an abuser. The consequences for violating either type of restraining order can include jail time, fines, and additional criminal charges.

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What is the difference between a civil and a criminal restraining order?

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