Indiana Protection Orders – State Overview
A structured explanation of Indiana’s protection order process.
Indiana Protection Order
General Eligibility
In Indiana, individuals eligible to request a protection order include those who have experienced domestic or family violence, stalking, or sexual assault. Eligibility extends to family members, household members, or intimate partners who are victims of abuse, threats, or harassment. The law aims to provide safety and prevent further harm through legal restrictions against the abuser.
Filing Locations
Petitions for protection orders may be filed at the superior or circuit court in the county where either the petitioner or respondent resides, or where the abuse took place. Many courthouses have a dedicated Clerk of Court or Court Services center to assist with filing. It is recommended to check local court websites or contact the court directly for specific filing procedures.
Service of Process
After filing, the respondent must be formally notified of the protection order petition through service of process. This is typically carried out by law enforcement officers or court-appointed process servers. Proper service ensures the respondent is aware of the allegations and the upcoming hearing date, maintaining fairness in legal proceedings.
Temporary Orders
Upon filing, the court may issue a temporary protection order if there is immediate danger of harm. These temporary orders provide short-term relief and safety measures such as no contact requirements or removal from the shared residence, lasting until the full hearing occurs. Temporary orders are granted without the respondent present but with careful judicial consideration of the petitioner's safety.
Hearings
The court schedules a hearing within a set time frame after the petition is filed, where both parties can present evidence and testimony. If the judge finds sufficient proof of abuse or threat, a full protection order may be granted, typically lasting up to two years with possible extension. Attending the hearing is critical, and support or legal counsel may be beneficial during this process.
For additional support navigating protection order processes, resources are available at DV Support, offering guidance and assistance for survivors.