It can be flattering sometimes - someone has taken a shine to you. Most of us don't mind a little extra attention now and then. But what about when you're getting unwanted attention from an ex or a stranger that starts to feel scary or dangerous? You may have heard of restraining orders but have been unsure of how they work. So here is a brief summary of protective orders laws in Wyoming.
Protective Orders Laws
A protective order is a court-certified document that prohibits the person named in the order from getting within a certain distance of the person seeking the order. If the named person violates the order he or she can be arrested and charged with a crime. Sometimes referred to as "restraining orders," protective orders are most often used in cases of domestic abuse, but can also be used to try to keep stalkers away.
| Code Section | 35-21-101, et seq.; 6-4-404 |
| Activity Addressed by Order | Enjoin contact; exclude from dwelling; regarding minors: temporary custody, support, counseling, (maximum 90 days) |
| Duration of Order | Protective order: maximum 3 months, may be extended for additional 3 month periods |
| Penalty for a Violation of Order | If willful violation: misdemeanor: jail maximum 6 mos. and/or $750 fine |
| Who May Apply for Order | Any victim of domestic abuse |
| Can Fees Be Waived? | Yes |
| Order Transmission to Law Enforcement | Copy to county sheriff who notifies local law enforcement agency in petitioner's county |
| Civil Liability for Violation of Order | Yes |
As you can see, Wyoming has a protective order procedure well in place. Domestic violence is taken seriously here, as it should. Survivors of domestic abuse and those who feel threatened can use protection orders to shield themselves from further harassment and abuse. Wyoming also has emergency protection orders, which can be put in place quickly so the threatened person has more time to request a more permanent order. Additionally, federal protection order law requires states to honor and enforce valid orders issued by other states.
Wyoming Protective Orders Laws: Related Resources
Obtaining and enforcing a protective order can be a legally and emotionally complex process. If you would like legal assistance with a protective order matter, you can contact a Wyoming domestic violence attorney. You can also visit FindLaw’s Orders of Protection and Restraining Orders section for more articles and resources on this topic.
