Restraining order in cases of domestic violence
What is it?
In cases of domestic violence or a serious threat of domestic violence, the mayor may issue a restraining order. This order provides a cooling-off period during which assistance is initiated. While the restraining order is in effect, the perpetrator is prohibited from entering the home or contacting the residents for ten days. The order may 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 close friend, please report it 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 residence immediately
- the perpetrator is not allowed to have any 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 offender must inform the mayor of how and where he or she can be reached
If the offender fails to comply with the restraining order, he or she may be sentenced to imprisonment or community service.
End of house arrest
The mayor may lift the restraining order at any time. Reasons may include:
- The threat to the victim has been eliminated.
- The offender 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 Dutch Rijksoverheid provides information about domestic violence, how to recognize it, and how to report it.