Without intervention domestic violence can become more destructive over time and can become lethal. The victim may ask the Court or prosecutor to request a no contact order. This order can protect the victim during the court criminal process. A no contact order can also be issued at sentencing. This order, which is issued by a judge, prohibits the person charged with a crime from contacting the victim of crime by phone, letter, or through third party, including messages through friends and relatives.
Any violation is a gross misdemeanor and often arrest is mandatory.
This order is obtained by the victim by filing a petition at Jefferson County Superior Court. There is no cost in obtaining this order. The order for protection generally is granted for one year. However, it can be issued for longer than one year under certain circumstances. A victim may request that an order be renewed before it expires.