Sheriff`s Corner

Hi everyone and welcome to the Sheriff's Corner. I hope everyone had a great 4th of July holiday. Now that we're back at work, I'd like to continue with our focus on domestic violence and what goes on in this, all too often, secret world.

This week I'd like to talk about another aspect of domestic violence that unfortunately all to often is confusing to people who need the process the most. That is the "no contact order" and the "injunction for protection".

First the "No Contact Order". When the perpetrator is arrested for domestic violence and goes before the Judge for first appearance, the Judge may order that the defendant has "no contact" with the victim or witness. This means no contact either directly or indirectly or through a third party, physical contact, by telephone, by letter, by fax by e-mail or by driving by your house or place of employment. No Contact!

Injunctions for Protection, or Restraining Orders are issued "upon your petition of a Judge" as a result of domestic or repeat violence. Domestic violence is generally, violence within a family or persons living as a family. Repeat violence is when the same person commits two acts of violence against the same victim within six months. Injunctions fall under civil law, but may coincide with criminal cases. Petitions are available through the Clerk of Courts Office in our courthouse. If you feel that this process is right for you, contact the Clerk's Office or one of our Victim's Advocates for more information including the process of obtaining an injunction or restraining order.

In addition, on July 1, 2003, our legislative session amended the Victims Freedom Act to include Repeat and Dating violence injunctions for protection for victims of sexual violence. This means victims of sexual violence in dating relationships have a new tool for protection. The victim needs only to cooperate with any criminal investigation.

We'll continue next week and talk about the specifics of injunctions and restraining orders. Take care, be careful.