Know the Laws: Kentucky

UPDATED October 11, 2007

A restraining order or protective order is a legal order issued by a state court which requires one person to stop harming another.  In Kentucky, there are several types of orders explained below.

• Overview of Civil vs. Criminal Law

  Some restraining orders are issued in criminal court and some are issued in civil court.

• Protective Orders

  Provides protection from harm by a family member or someone you are in a relationship with.

• Criminal Complaints

  You may also be able to file a criminal complaint if you are the victim of domestic violence

• Kentucky Domestic Violence Association
• Moving to Another State with a Kentucky Domestic Violence Order (DVO)

  Your DVO may be enforceable wherever you move.

• Enforcing an Out-of-State Order in KY

  If you are planning to move to KY or are going to be in KY for any reason, your protection or restraining order may be enforced.

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