Restraining order in cases of domestic violence
What is it?
In cases of domestic violence or serious threats of domestic violence, the mayor can issue a restraining order. This order provides a cooling-off period during which assistance can be provided. During the restraining order, the perpetrator is not allowed to enter the home or have any contact with the residents of the home for ten days. The order can be extended to 28 days.
Domestic violence includes:
- physical violence
- child abuse
- sexual abuse
- neglect
- threat
- stalking
- honor killing
If you are a victim of violence by a (former) partner, family member, relative, or family friend, report this to the police as soon as possible.
How does it work?
As soon as the mayor issues a restraining order:
- the perpetrator must leave the premises immediately
- the perpetrator is not allowed to have contact with the people in the house (such as the partner and children)
- the perpetrator is not allowed to enter the house or come near the house
- the perpetrator must inform the mayor how and where he or she can be reached
If the perpetrator fails to comply with the restraining order, he or she may be sentenced to imprisonment or community service.
End of restraining order
The mayor may terminate the restraining order at any time. Reasons for doing so may include:
- The threat to the victim has disappeared.
- The perpetrator agrees to the assistance offered.
What should I do?
- Report domestic violence to the police as soon as possible. Victims, witnesses, neighbors, friends, or family members can do this.
- The federal government provides information about domestic violence, how to recognize domestic violence, and how to report it.