Violation of a Protective Order is a Criminal Offense
The process that a person goes through to get a protective order is an application to a judge in civil court. However, if the protective order is violated, the charge of violation of the restraining order is a criminal charge with criminal penalties upon conviction.
The Utah Criminal Defense Law Firm of Schatz, Anderson & Uday, L.L.C.
At Schatz, Anderson & Uday, L.L.C., our practice focuses almost exclusively on criminal defense on behalf of clients throughout Utah, including in Salt Lake City, Provo and Ogden. Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against thousands of misdemeanor and felony criminal charges — including charges for violation of a protective order.
What Is a Protective Order?
Under Utah law a judge can issue a protective order at the request of an individual who claims to have been physically assaulted, threatened or harassed by another person. If the judge finds evidence to support the request, the judge can issue an order prohibiting the subject of the order from having contact of any kind with the applicant. Protective orders can also prohibit the subject from going near the applicant's home, school or place of employment.
Protective Orders Cannot Be Waived
Some of our clients get in trouble because they falsely believe that their ex-wife — or whoever has the protective order — can waive the order by inviting them over. A protective order cannot be waived or rescinded except by a judge. Accepting an invitation is not a defense to a criminal charge of violating a protective order.
Penalties for Conviction on a Protective Order Violation Charge
Violation of a protective order is considered a crime of domestic violence, and carries all the penalties associated with any other crime of domestic violence. In addition, the conviction may carry a jail sentence, depending in part on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony.
The conviction will remain part of your criminal record. A conviction on a misdemeanor charge cannot be expunged for at least three years after the end of any probationary period. A conviction on a felony charge cannot be expunged for at least seven years after the end of probation.
Fight Back - Talk to a Lawyer Today
It is possible to fight back against criminal charges of probation violation. Contact Schatz, Anderson & Uday, L.L.C., today to schedule a free consultation with one of our criminal defense lawyers. Call toll free 866-604-3696 or use our online contact form.
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