English
EspañolAm I eligible to file for a harassment protection order?
You can file for a harassment protection order if you have been the victim of harassment. You do not have to have a specific relationship with the abuser to qualify for an order.1
If you do not qualify for a harassment protection order, you may qualify for a domestic abuse protection order or a sexual assault protection order instead. If you already filed for a harassment protection order, you can ask the judge to treat your petition as one asking for one of the other types of order. The judge can do that if they believe it is appropriate.2
1 Neb. Rev. Stat. § 26-104(1)
2 Neb. Rev. Stat. § 26-107
How much does it cost to get a harassment protection order?
There is no fee to file or serve a harassment protection order.
The only way you might possibly be ordered to pay fees or costs is if the judge decides that the statements in your petition were false and that you filed the protection order in “bad faith.”1
At the final hearing, a judge may order the abuser to pay the costs related to filing or serving your protection order.2
1 Neb. Rev. Stat. § 26-116(1)
2 Neb. Rev. Stat. § 26-116(2)
What are the steps for getting a harassment protection order?
The steps for getting a harassment protection order are similar to those to get a domestic abuse protection order, but you will fill out different forms. If you have questions, you can talk to the clerk of court or a lawyer. You can find the contact information for local courthouses on the Nebraska Courthouse Locations page and for lawyers on the Nebraska Finding a Lawyer page.
Do I need an attorney to get a harassment protection order?
You do not need an attorney to file for a protection order, but it is generally better to have one, especially if there will be a hearing or if the abuser is represented by one. To find a lawyer or legal aid program in your area, please visit our Nebraska Finding a Lawyer page. A domestic violence organization may be able to help you through the process if you do not have an attorney. To find a domestic violence organization, go to our Nebraska Advocates and Shelters page.
Do I have to share my address when filling out the court forms?
If you are worried about the harasser finding out your address, you may request that your address be kept confidential.1 You may also want to learn more about the Nebraska Office of the Secretary of State’s Address Confidentiality Program for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and trafficking.
1 See What happens after the judge signs the protection order? in the Nebraska Judicial Branch website’s frequently asked questions
