Who is eligible to file an application for a protective order?

The eligibility to file an application for a protective order generally includes any adult member of the family or household. This means that individuals who are part of a domestic relationship, whether through marriage, cohabitation, or familial ties, have the legal standing to seek protection through the courts if they feel threatened or have been victims of violence or abuse.

This option recognizes the broad scope of relationships that can occur within a household or family and allows for those potentially affected by domestic violence to take necessary legal actions to ensure their safety. Protective orders are crucial legal tools that help individuals obtain protection from further harassment or harm, reflecting the understanding that many individuals within a household may experience threats or violence.

In contrast, other options are more limiting. For instance, it is not exclusive to only victims of crimes, as family members and cohabitants can also seek protective orders on behalf of others or for themselves. Law enforcement officials can assist in the process but are not the only ones authorized to file such applications. Minors can pursue protective orders, yet they typically need a guardian to assist them in the filing process to ensure that the minor's best interests are represented in court.