Index
Issuance of Protective Orders for Family Violence
Summary
Texas courts can issue protective orders against a person who has committed family violence, prohibiting them from committing further violence, harassing the victim, or coming within a certain distance.
Rights & Rules
- 01.The right to seek and obtain court protection from family violence, including physical harm, threats, or abuse.
- 02.The right to have the court consider any history of family violence when making child custody and visitation orders.
Penalties
- 01.Violation of a protective order is a criminal offense (Class A misdemeanor for first offense, felony for repeat offenses), leading to arrest, fines, and imprisonment.
Verified Citations
Texas Family Code Section 81.001
Source"A person may file an application for a protective order under this title without regard to whether the family violence or sexual assault alleged in the application has been reported to the appropriate law enforcement authority."