Protection Orders
There are several forms of legal protection survivors of abuse may qualify for through the court system.
Legal Protection Orders: You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
If you’re experiencing abuse, harassment, or threats to your safety, the legal system offers powerful tools to help protect you. At Victims’ Intervention Program (VIP), we understand how overwhelming this process can feel—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you’re facing harm from a partner, family member, acquaintance, or someone you don’t know well, there may be legal protections available to help keep you safe. From Protection From Abuse (PFA) Orders to Sexual Violence and Intimidation Protection Orders, each option is designed to meet specific circumstances and relationships.
Explore the types of protection orders below to understand what might apply to your situation. And remember—you’re not alone. A VIP Advocate may be able to support you during the filing process and even accompany you to court.
When an abuser is a present or past member of the victim’s household or family, or a past or current intimate partner, the victim is eligible for a Protection From Abuse order. PFA orders are court orders a judge can issue that require an abuser to stay away from a victim of domestic abuse or stalking.
*** PURSUE IF THE ABUSER IS a family member, an ex-intimate partner, or spouse of the victim. ***
Adults and minors can petition for a Sexual Violence Protection Order. For example, a SVPO could be granted for a victim who is sexually assaulted by a coworker, and who has no other relationship with the coworker – is not now or never was a family relation, spouse, dating partner, or member of the same household
*** PURSUE IF THE ABUSER IS a stranger, a co-worker, or acquaintance of the victim. ***
Created to protect minors when the offender is age 18 or older. For example, a PFI could be granted for a child whose sports coach or an adult friend of the family is stalking or harassing him or her.
*** PURSUE IF THE ABUSER IS 18+ and a stranger or acquaintance of an underage victim. ***
For those seeking protection outside of business hours, you can be connected with the on-call judge by calling the Communication Center in your county.
Pike County: 570-296-7700 || Wayne County: 570-253-3109