What Can Happen?

What Can Happen Under a PFS Order?

When you are granted a PFS order, the Court may order any or all of the following things:

1. Restrain the defendant from following, harassing, telephoning, contacting or otherwise communicating with the victim.

2. Restrain the defendant from abusing, molesting, or interfering with the privacy rights of the victim.

3. Restrain the defendant from entering upon or in the victim’s residence or the immediate vicinity thereof.

4. Order or restrain any other acts deemed necessary by the court to protect the victim of stalking.

How Long Does the Final PFS Last?

The judge may issue a final PFS order that is good for up to a year. If you want to have the order extended for another year, before the order expires you must file a motion with the court asking for the extension and telling the court why you think there is a continuing need for the PFS order. The clerk of the district court will have the form you will need to file this motion.

Other Things to Know About PFS Orders

Your PFS order is not enforceable until it has been served on the defendant. If the defendant violates the order before it is served, you can still call law enforcement. The law enforcement officer will not be able to arrest the defendant for violating the order, but they can still protect you and may arrest the defendant for other illegal conduct.

Your PFS order is only a piece of paper. It will not protect you if your stalker should decide to physically attack you. You should seriously consider having a safety plan for you and your children.

Advocates may be available to help you with the filing of your PFS petition, may be able to accompany you to court, can provide you with information about stalking, and can help you with safety planning. Call your local sexual assault or domestic violence program for assistance.

For more information on stalking, visit the Stalking Resource Center or call:
1-800-394-2255.

The information on this page is a summary of the Protection from Stalking Act. For more information on this law or for legal advice, you should seek the assistance of an attorney.
ALWAYS KEEP YOUR COPY OF THE PFS ORDER WITH YOU!

IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 911!