What is a TPO (Temporary Protection Order), a CPO (Civil Protection Order), or a CSPO (Civil Stalking Protection Order)?
Temporary Protection Orders (TPOs): Accompany a criminal charge. TPOs are granted when the abuser is arrested and has appeared in front of a judge and the victim has safety concerns. A TPO orders the abuser out of the home and to have no contact with the victim while the criminal case is pending in court. A temporary order lasts until the criminal case is resolved. A violation of this order can cause the offender to be arrested and charged with a first degree misdemeanor punishable by 6 months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Civil Protection Orders (CPOs): Offer more lasting and comprehensive protection than temporary orders. A request for a CPO can be made even if there are no criminal charges against the abuser. A civil protection order may: * Order the abuser to have no contact with you or your children * Evict the abuser from the home * Forbid the abuser from owning or buying firearms * Grant any other relief that the court considers equitable and fair A CPO lasts up to a maximum of
