Protective Orders

Protective orders in Utah

Utah provides civil protective orders for cohabitants facing abuse or the threat of it, criminal protective orders in charged cases, and stalking injunctions — all under Utah Code Title 78B, Chapter 7.

How the civil process works

• A petition supported by sworn facts can yield an ex parte order the same day, without the other party present.
• A hearing follows promptly, where the court decides whether a longer-term order enters.
• Orders can cover no contact, the home, children, firearms, and support, and violating one is a crime.

Protective-order findings can also shape a later custody case: evidence of domestic violence is a mandatory consideration under Utah Code § 81-9-204(3).

If you are accused

A protective order entered on one-sided facts follows you into the divorce. Appear at the hearing, with counsel, with evidence.