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1. What should I do if I am the person named as a “respondent” in a Preliminary Protective Order or Protective Order?

• You will receive a copy of the order from the Police Department. Read the order carefully. Strict compliance with the order will avoid additional problems that can result in criminal penalties. You may not possess a firearm.
• If you wish to have your side of the story heard it is important to appear in court. Otherwise, the court may enter the Protective Order without hearing from you. You may ask the court to dismiss or change the terms of the order. Only a judge may dismiss or change the terms.
• The order will have a date and time for a hearing. Arrive at the courthouse at least 30 minutes ahead of time. You or your attorney will tell your side of the case at the hearing. It is very important that you appear in court on the date provided on the Order. If you do not respond, you are telling the court that you are not arguing against the petition. Read the order very carefully.

2. What should I do at the hearing as the respondent?

When your name is called go to the front of the courtroom. Only you and/or your attorney, if you hired one, can speak for you. The judge will ask you questions. Listen carefully, answer them completely, tell the truth and speak clearly. The other person’s attorney may ask you questions. Do not interrupt while anyone else is speaking. If you have any questions or do not understand something, ask the judge before you leave the courtroom.

3. When does a Protective Order take effect?

A law enforcement officer will serve the Protective Order to the person from whom you want protection. A Protective Order is not valid until that person gets a copy. This is called "personal service". At the full hearing, where both parties are present and go before the judge, the order will be given to both of you at the end of the hearing if the judge enters the order. Do not leave the courtroom without a copy of the order.

4. How will I know when the Protective Order is served on the person from whom I want protection?

"Served" means the order is given, in person, to the named individual on the document. A sheriff or police officer serves protective orders. Preliminary Protective Orders or Protective Orders are served as soon as law enforcement makes contact with the respondent. If you are not aware of whether the order has been served you can call the Police Department at 434-970-3280 or the Victim Witness Office at 434-970-3176.

5. What should I do if the Protective Order is violated?

If your Protective Order is violated, you should immediately call 911 and tell law enforcement that you have a Protective Order and the abuser is violating it. You should also notify the Victim Witness Office, located in the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and/or the court.