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Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

Family Law Attorney Kenneth M. Wasche, P.C.

Orders for protection and harassment restraining orders are Minnesota court orders that can help protect you and your children from domestic violence, stalking, threats, and ongoing harassment in and around Blaine, Anoka County, and the Twin Cities.

What an order for protection can do

An order for protection can require an abusive partner or family member to stay a set distance away from you, your home, your workplace, and your children’s school. In some cases, the order can give you temporary possession of the home during a divorce or separation and prohibit any direct or indirect contact.

Orders may be temporary or long term, depending on the facts of the case and what the court believes is necessary to keep you and your children safe.

Common reasons to seek an order for protection

  • Physical violence or threats of violence
  • Emotional or psychological abuse
  • Stalking or repeated unwanted contact
  • Harassment at home, work, or your child’s school
  • Control of money or property that leaves you unsafe or unable to meet basic needs
  • A volatile divorce or separation involving children

Domestic violence and your family law case

Domestic violence concerns often arise during a divorce, custody, or parenting time dispute. Our firm handles related family law matters, including child support, parenting time, and custody issues so your safety and your children’s best interests are addressed together.

Talk with a local attorney about your options

If you are considering an order for protection, or if you have been served with one in Blaine, Anoka County, or the surrounding Twin Cities communities, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Attorney Kenneth M. Wasche can explain your options, help you prepare for a hearing, and work with you to protect your safety and your rights.

If you believe you or your child is in immediate danger, call 911. For legal advice about your situation, contact us to request a consultation.

Domestic Violence and Restraining Order FAQs

Questions about orders for protection and restraining orders come up quickly when there is conflict at home. Review common answers below. If you do not see what you need, contact us and we will help.

What is an order for protection in Minnesota?An order for protection is a court order that limits contact to help prevent domestic abuse and stalking.

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In Minnesota, an order for protection (OFP) is a court order that restricts contact when there are allegations of domestic abuse, threats, or stalking. The order can require the alleged abuser to stay away from a person, a home, a workplace, or a child’s school. It can also address temporary custody and parenting time. If you need legal guidance on filing for or responding to an OFP in Blaine or Anoka County, visit our Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders page, review our Family Law overview, or contact us for a consultation.

How long can an order for protection last?Orders can be short term or can last for several years, depending on the facts.

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An order for protection can be issued on an emergency basis for a short period of time or after a hearing for a longer term. Some OFPs last only until a court date, while others may remain in effect for years. The court looks at the history of domestic abuse, the level of risk, and the needs of any children involved. If your current OFP affects custody or parenting time, the information on our custody and parenting time page may also be helpful.

Can an order for protection affect child custody and parenting time?Yes. An OFP can set temporary rules for custody, parenting time, and exchanges.

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Yes. An order for protection can temporarily change where a child lives, who has decision making authority, and how parenting time exchanges take place. Courts in Blaine, Anoka County, and across Minnesota focus on the best interests of the child when domestic abuse or threats are involved. For more detail on custody standards, see our article on the best interest of the child or review our custody and parenting time page.

What happens if someone violates an order for protection?Violations can lead to arrest, criminal charges, and additional court orders.

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If a person violates an order for protection, law enforcement may arrest them and the county attorney may file criminal charges. The court can also change or extend the order. Even contact that seems minor, such as messages through a friend, may be treated as a violation. If you believe an OFP has been violated or if you have been accused of violating an order, it is important to speak with an attorney familiar with family law and domestic abuse cases in Minnesota. You can start by requesting a consultation on our contact page.

Can an order for protection be changed or dismissed?Yes, but changes usually require a court request and a strong reason.

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An order for protection can sometimes be changed, shortened, extended, or dismissed, but the court will review the request carefully. Judges consider safety, any new incidents, and whether the circumstances that led to the order have changed. Either party may ask the court to modify the order. If your family situation has changed and you need to review custody, parenting time, or support at the same time, visit our Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders page, our Family Law overview, or contact us for guidance.

What if someone files for an order for protection and the claims are exaggerated or false?You still need to respond and appear in court to protect your rights.

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Sometimes a person may feel that an OFP request overstates events or leaves out important context, especially during a difficult divorce or custody dispute. Even if you believe the petition is exaggerated or false, it is important to respond, attend the hearing, and present your side. The outcome can affect your contact with your children, your housing, and your record. Our divorce and custody pages explain how these issues connect in family law cases in Blaine and the Twin Cities. You can also contact us directly through our contact page.

Do you represent clients in domestic violence and OFP cases in my area?We serve clients in Blaine, Anoka County, and the greater Twin Cities.

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Yes. Attorney Kenneth M. Wasche represents clients in domestic violence, OFP, and related family law matters in Blaine, throughout Anoka County, and across the Twin Cities. This includes communities such as Coon Rapids, Andover, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Spring Lake Park, Minneapolis, and St. Paul. If you need help with an order for protection or a related divorce or custody case, start with a consultation on our contact page.

How do I get started if I am worried about domestic violence or safety at home?Reach out for a confidential consultation to review your options.

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If you are concerned about domestic violence, threats, or stalking, your safety comes first. In an emergency, call 911. After any immediate safety steps with law enforcement or local resources, legal guidance can help you understand your options for orders for protection, custody, and support in Minnesota. We review your situation, explain what the court can and cannot do, and outline next steps tailored to your family. You can request a consultation through our contact page or learn more on our Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders page.

Contact Attorney Kenneth M. Wasche to discuss your legal needs.