Glossary
Order of Protection
A court order restricting contact by someone who has committed domestic abuse, stalking, or sexual assault, available on an emergency basis.
Also called: restraining order, protective order
A Tennessee court can issue a temporary order the same day a petition is filed if the petition shows an immediate threat, with a full hearing set shortly afterwards where both sides present evidence.
An order of protection can do more than prohibit contact. It can address who remains in a shared home, temporary custody arrangements, and possession of firearms, which is why the consequences are serious for both the person seeking protection and the person responding.
These cases frequently run alongside a divorce or custody matter, and findings made in one proceeding can affect the other. Both petitioners and respondents are better served by treating the hearing as the substantive proceeding it is rather than a formality.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
General information about Tennessee law, not legal advice. How this applies depends on the facts of your matter.
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