Utah law enforcers and attorneys are reminding survivors of domestic violence that support to obtain protective orders is readily available. This assistance is offered regardless of whether an individual chooses to pursue criminal charges against a perpetrator.
Police, prosecutors, and advocates convened at the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office on Thursday to reinforce this crucial message. The gathering took place during a national month of awareness dedicated to domestic violence, underscoring the ongoing need for resources and support for survivors throughout the state.
The process of obtaining a protective order, which involves filing paperwork within the state court system, can often feel daunting. However, for those seeking assistance from the nonprofit Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake, the initial steps can begin from the comfort of their home. Stewart Ralphs, the group’s executive director, explained that individuals can start the process with a call to a skilled paralegal. Ralphs highlighted the convenience of this remote option, stating its significant benefit for their working clients.
Last year alone, the Legal Aid Society’s domestic violence program provided representation to more than 2,500 individuals. Additionally, an extra 200 people received assistance through its separate domestic relations program. The Legal Aid Society focuses its services on low-income individuals located within Salt Lake County. For those who do not meet these specific income or geographic criteria, the organization provides referrals to other appropriate agencies, ensuring that help can be found.
To secure a protective order, individuals in Utah are not required to have been married to or living with the other person involved. An alternative option, a civil stalking injunction, is also available. This type of injunction focuses on the specific behavior of an aggressor rather than the nature of the relationship between the parties. It is important to note that violating either a protective order or a civil stalking injunction is classified as a criminal offense, and police are required to make an arrest on the spot for such violations.
Most civil protective orders issued in Utah typically remain in effect for a period of three years. However, specific provisions related to custody and parent time within these orders have a shorter duration, expiring after just 150 days. Ralphs also confirmed that his organization extends its assistance to individuals navigating custody or divorce cases, providing support beyond initial protective orders.
On the criminal justice side, prosecutors have the ability to pursue other types of protective orders for victims once a case comes to their attention. Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill stated that his office may implement numerous forms of protective orders—potentially as many as six different kinds—throughout the progression of a case. Gill clarified that his team works closely with advocates and counselors to ensure the needs of victims and survivors are met, a fact he noted many people might not realize. For more detailed information on specific protective orders and stalking injunctions, Utahns can visit the state courts website.
