What is Violation of EPO/DVO Kentucky?
The EPO (Emergency Protective Order) and DVO (Domestic Violence Order) are legal instruments designed to protect victims of domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking in the state of Kentucky. These orders are issued by the court to prevent the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim, and can be a crucial step in ensuring the victim’s safety.
What is an EPO?
An EPO is a temporary order that is issued by a court to protect a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking. It is typically issued ex parte, meaning that the abuser is not present in court and is not given notice of the order. The EPO is usually valid for 14 days, during which time the abuser is prohibited from:
• Contacting the victim by phone, email, text message, or any other means
• Approaching the victim or entering the victim’s home, workplace, or school
• Harassing or intimidating the victim
What is a DVO?
A DVO is a longer-term order that is issued by a court to protect a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking. Unlike an EPO, a DVO is typically issued after a hearing where both the victim and the abuser are present. A DVO can be valid for up to 1 year, and may include additional provisions such as:
• Requiring the abuser to stay away from the victim’s home, workplace, or school
• Prohibiting the abuser from possessing firearms or other weapons
• Requiring the abuser to participate in counseling or treatment
What is a Violation of EPO/DVO Kentucky?
A violation of an EPO or DVO occurs when the abuser fails to comply with the terms of the order. This can include:
• Contacting the victim in violation of the order
• Approaching the victim or entering the victim’s home, workplace, or school
• Harassing or intimidating the victim in violation of the order
Consequences of Violating an EPO/DVO Kentucky
Violating an EPO or DVO can have serious consequences, including:
• Arrest and criminal charges: The abuser can be arrested and charged with a crime, which can result in fines and imprisonment.
• Criminal penalties: The abuser can face criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for violating the order.
• Civil penalties: The victim may be able to seek civil penalties, such as damages, against the abuser for violating the order.
• Loss of custody or visitation rights: The abuser may lose custody or visitation rights to any children involved in the case.
How to Report a Violation of an EPO/DVO Kentucky
If you believe that an EPO or DVO has been violated, you should report it to the authorities immediately. You can do this by:
• Calling 911 or your local police department: If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or your local police department for assistance.
• Contacting the Kentucky State Police: If you are not in immediate danger, you can contact the Kentucky State Police at (502) 227-8888 to report the violation.
• Contacting the court: You can also contact the court that issued the EPO or DVO to report the violation.
Table: Consequences of Violating an EPO/DVO Kentucky
| Consequence | Description |
|---|---|
| Arrest and criminal charges | The abuser can be arrested and charged with a crime for violating the order. |
| Criminal penalties | The abuser can face fines and imprisonment for violating the order. |
| Civil penalties | The victim may be able to seek damages against the abuser for violating the order. |
| Loss of custody or visitation rights | The abuser may lose custody or visitation rights to any children involved in the case. |
Conclusion
Violating an EPO or DVO in Kentucky can have serious consequences, including arrest, criminal charges, and loss of custody or visitation rights. If you believe that an EPO or DVO has been violated, you should report it to the authorities immediately. Remember, an EPO or DVO is a legal instrument designed to protect you from harm, and it is important to take it seriously and comply with its terms.
