What is a protective order?

A protective order is a legal document that is issued by a court to protect an individual from harassment, stalking, or other forms of abuse by restricting the contact the abuser can have with the victim. This legal mechanism is crucial in family violence cases as it serves to create physical and emotional safety for the victim by legally mandating the abuser to stay away or limit communication. It may include provisions such as the abuser staying a certain distance from the victim's home, workplace, or other locations.

In contrast, the other options present alternative forms of support or services that do not directly address the legal aspects of protecting an individual from an abusive situation. Emergency shelters provide temporary housing for victims, therapy sessions are meant for emotional support and healing, and notification systems could allow family members to stay informed about a victim's well-being. While all these options are supportive in nature, they do not fulfill the specific legal protective role that a protective order does.