What is a Civil Protection Order?
A protection order is a written court document that prohibits violence from the abuser. The purpose of a Civil Protection Order is to protect the victims of domestic violence. Once the Judge signs the protection order and both the victim and the respondent are served with notice of the order, it is against the law to violate any of the terms of the order.
Who is eligible for a Civil Protection Order?
In order to be eligible for a protection order, the petitioner (person requesting the protection order) and the respondent (person against whom the protection order is requested) must have a domestic relationship. A domestic relationship includes the following:
- Spouse or former spouse
- Living together or previously lived together
- Child in common
- Parent
- Related by blood, adoption, or marriage
- Are dating or were previously dating
How do I obtain a Civil Protection Order?
- A protection order may be obtained at no cost and without an attorney.
- A petition (application) form is available from the Court Clerk located at the Nez Perce County Courthouse, 1230 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Lewiston, Idaho.
Is help available for completing an application for a Civil Protection Order?
If you need help completing an application for a protection order, you can contact the following:
- YWCA, 208-743-1535, 300 Main Street, Lewiston, Idaho
- Nez Perce County Court Assistance Office, 208-799-3191, 1230 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Lewiston, Idaho
- Idaho Domestic Violence Legal Hotline, 877-500-2980
- Idaho State Domestic Violence 24 Hour Hotline (Crisis Line), 800-669-3176
- Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence, 888-293-6118
Where can I get more information regarding Civil Protection Orders?
- Information on Civil Protection Orders can be found in the video developed by the Idaho Supreme Court entitled "The Idaho Court System: Domestic Violence" which can be viewed by clicking here.
- Detailed information can also be found in the following brochure:
- You can also find brochures and information by visiting the Idaho Supreme Court website by clicking here.
How do I modify, renew, dismiss, or terminate a Civil Protection Order?
Forms for modifying, renewing, dismissing, or terminating a protection order are available through the Idaho Supreme Court by clicking here.
What is the difference between a No Contact Order, a Civil Protection Order, and a Restraining Order?
Please read the brochure entitled "Protection Orders, Criminal No Contact Orders, Restraining Orders; Definitions, Descriptions & Differences" which can be found by clicking here.