Restraining Orders

A sexual assault or stalking protective order can order the abuser to stay away from you and/or your children.¹ Under Vermont law, “stay away” means that the offender cannot:

• be physically close to you; or
• have nonphysical contact with you directly or through a third person (regardless of whether or not the third person knows about the order).² Note: “Nonphysical contact” means s/he cannot contact you in writing, or through telephone calls, mail, e-mail, social media commentary or comments, or other electronic communication or fax.³

The judge can also order anything else that the judge believes is necessary to protect you and/or your children.¹

¹ VT ST 12 § 5133(d)
² VT ST 12 § 5131(7)
³ VT ST 12 § 5131(3)