What can I do to protect myself once the order has been made?
You
should continue to take all practical and necessary steps to ensure
that you and those close to you are safe. A court order might prevent
someone from harming you, but it is not a guarantee. For example,
you should make sure you are not alone in a vulnerable situation,
ensure you have good locks on your doors with emergency numbers
by the phone.
You
should also register your order with the police who will keep a
record of it on their computer system. If the order is broken they
can then check it very quickly and take action. When you register
the order you might be asked to file a description of the person
whom the order is against. The police may also require a certified
copy of the order and a copy of the filed Affidavit of Service to
show that the other person knows of the order. If a lawyer obtained
the order for you, do not assume that the lawyer will file it with
the police. Ask if it has been filed and if not take steps to do
so. It is also helpful if you carry a copy of the order with you
at all times so that you can show it to the police if you have to
call them.
WARNING:
The contents of these FAQs are intended as general legal information
only.
If
you have a personal problem, please consult a lawyer.
July 2003
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