Programs that provide assistance for people who are victims of domestic abuse and need to obtain a temporary restraining order (TRO) to prevent harassment, stalking or violence on the part of the abusive individual until the court can set a hearing to review the evidence and determine what permanent relief is appropriate. Variously known as protective orders, personal protection orders and temporary protective orders, restraining orders are injunctions issued by the court that restrain the conduct of the abuser and may identify places such as the abused person's residence or workplace that the individual is prohibited from entering. Although eligibility may vary, restraining orders are generally available to people who have been physically, emotionally or sexually abused or threatened by a current or former spouse, family member, partner, other parent of a child, current or former roommate, or current or former dating partner. In some jurisdictions, emergency protective orders can be issued by law enforcement during times the court is closed if an individual is in immediate danger. Also included are Canadian peace bonds which apply more broadly to general cases of assault, and restraining orders that apply to people who are being stalked by a person known to them or a stranger, or to couples who going through a divorce.
Taxonomy Code: FT-300.850
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