What is a restraining order?

A restraining order is a type of family law order in North Carolina that provides legal protection for victims of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. A restraining order is a legally binding document that requires a person to stay away from another person. It also restricts a person from doing certain things, such as contacting the other person, coming near their home or workplace, and owning a firearm. In order to obtain a restraining order in North Carolina, you must file a complaint in the county where you or the respondent (the person you are trying to restrain) reside. In your complaint, you must provide evidence that the respondent has committed or is likely to commit a criminal domestic violence offense or a non-criminal domestic violence offense. The court will then decide whether or not to issue a restraining order. If granted, the restraining order may include a variety of conditions such as prohibiting the respondent from having contact with the petitioner, ordering the respondent to stay away from certain places, ordering the respondent to move out of the home, or requiring the respondent to attend counseling or classes. All restraining orders are enforced by local law enforcement and violations can result in fines, jail time, or both.

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