What is a Protective Order (Restraining Order)?
A protective order is a civil order that restricts contact an individual, the "Respondent," may have with the person requesting the protective order, who is called the "Petitioner." Typically, a protective order requires the respondent to avoid contacting the petitioner or threatening members of the petitioner's household. Along with barring contact, the court may enter additional orders. The court can require the respondent to vacate a residence, restrict possession of firearms, and/or pay child support. The court does have the authority to create some exceptions to the general prohibition on contacting the petitioner. For example, the court may restrict how the parties communicate (e.g., via e-mail only) and/or the subjects on which the parties may communicate (e.g., only about pick-up and drop-off of the parties' children).
A protective order may be obtained against a family or household member. Indiana statute defines a family or household member as:
A person who is a current or former spouse;
A person who is dating or has dated;
A person who is engaged or was engaged in a sexual relationship;
A person who is related by blood or adoption;
A person who is related or was related by marriage;
A person who has an established legal relationship or previously established a legal relationship:
as a guardian;
as a ward;
as a custodian;
as a foster parent; or
in a capacity similar to those listed.
A person who has a child in common;
A minor child of a person in a relationship described above.