English
EspañolHow do I extend or change my domestic violence order?
Extending your order
You can apply to extend your DVO for an additional period of up to three years. There is no limit on the number of times an order may be extended (reissued).1 To apply, you will need to file a motion with the clerk in the same county where you got your original order before your current DVO expires.
Your case will be scheduled for a hearing where both you and the abuser can come to court and present evidence. If there haven’t been any new acts of domestic violence since the order was entered, be prepared to explain to the judge why you are still in danger of further abuse – for example, based on the history of abuse, gun ownership, etc.
Changing your order
Either you or the abuser can file a motion to change (amend) a DVO.2 After a hearing, the judge will decide whether or not to amend the order.
Note: After a final DVO is issued, you can file a motion to amend it to request that the abuser wear a GPS device. The judge can grant your request if:
- the abuser has committed a “substantial violation” of your domestic violence order; and
- the judge believes that the GPS device would increase your safety.3
A “substantial violation” is a criminal act that involves actual or threatened harm to you, your family, your property, or a household pet.4
For more information, you can go to page 6 of the booklet How to Obtain a Protective Order from the Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts.
1 Ky. Rev. Stat. § 403.740(4)
2 Ky. Rev. Stat. § 403.745(5)
3 Ky. Rev. Stat. § 403.761(1)
4 Ky. Rev. Stat. § 403.720(10)
