What are the legal implications of breaking a restraining order?

Breaking a restraining order is a serious offense in New Hampshire. A restraining order is a legal document that sets out a specific set of rules and boundaries for one person to stay away from or not contact another person. Violating a restraining order in New Hampshire is a criminal offense that carries serious legal implications. Under the New Hampshire Domestic Violence Act, a person who violates a restraining order can be charged with criminal contempt. This is a Class A Misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. If the person charged with criminal contempt is also accused of domestic violence, the charge can be escalated to a Class B Felony which carries a penalty of up to seven years imprisonment and a fine of up to $4,000. In addition to any criminal penalties, a person who violates a restraining order may also be subject to civil liability. This means that the person who issued the restraining order can sue the violator for damages for any resulting harm, including physical, emotional, or financial harm. The plaintiff may be awarded monetary damages, including compensatory damages, as well as punitive damages. In short, breaking a restraining order in New Hampshire is a serious offense with serious consequences, including possible fines, imprisonment, and civil liability. Anyone who has been issued a restraining order should consider consulting with an attorney to fully understand their rights and obligations.

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What are the legal implications of breaking a restraining order?

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