Restraining Orders

Extension
A final protection from abuse order (PFA) lasts for up to two years.¹ However, if the order is going to run out and you believe that you still need protection, you can file for an extension of the order before it expires.² If the order has already expired, it may also be possible to ask for the order to be restored (reinstated) and extended, but to do this, you must prove that you:

• have “good cause” for filing your motion to extend late, which can include reasons like not being able to serve the abuser in a prior attempt to extend the order; and
• filed this motion within a reasonable amount of time.³ 

If the judge finds you have proven both of these conditions, they can restore your order until there can be a hearing to decide if the order should be extended.³ If you do not file the motion to extend before the old order runs out or you cannot prove the two conditions above in order to get it reinstated, you may have to start all over again by filing a new protection from abuse complaint.

The judge will hold a hearing that the abuser can attend to decide if the order should be extended. At this hearing, the judge could consider:

• the underlying reasons for the original order, including earlier abuse and the history of abuse;
• the behavior since the final protection order was issued;
• the continued effect of the abuse on you; and
• all other relevant factors.²

The judge can extend an order for as much time as they believe is necessary to protect you or your minor child from abuse. It is not limited to two years like the final PFA order is. A final protection order may be extended more than once.²

Modification
Either you or the abuser can file to change (modify) a final order. The judge would hold a hearing to decide if there is “sufficient cause” to do so. Judges can modify an order multiple times as circumstances may require.⁴

¹ Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A, § 4110(5)(A)
² Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A, § 4111(1)
³ Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A, § 4111(1-A)
⁴ Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A, § 4111(2)