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Legal Information: Vermont

Restraining Orders

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Laws current as of October 24, 2025

Can an order for relief from abuse, neglect, or exploitation be extended or changed?

The vulnerable adult or the interested person who got the order may file a motion asking for it to be extended. The judge can grant an extension for as long as needed to protect the vulnerable adult. 

Either party may ask for the order to be changed (modified) at any time. Whoever files the motion must show that there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the order was granted.

The vulnerable adult must be notified if an interested party asks to extend or change the order. The judge will decide if the vulnerable adult is capable of expressing their wishes about the motion. If the judge believes they are capable, the judge will ask if they want the motion to go forward, and if they do not, the motion will be dismissed.1

1 VT ST 33 § 6935(a)

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