Legal Information: North Carolina

Restraining Orders

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Updated: 
April 23, 2021

Can I get my DVPO from North Carolina enforced in another state?

Yes. If you have a valid North Carolina DVPO that meets federal standards, it can be enforced in another state. The Violence Against Women Act, which is a federal law, states that all valid DVPOs granted in the United States receive “full faith and credit” in all state and tribal courts within the US, including US territories. See How do I know if my DVPO is good under federal law? to find out if your DVPO qualifies.

“Full faith and credit” means that each state must enforce out-of-state DVPOs in the same way it enforces its own orders. Meaning, if your abuser violates your out-of-state DVPO, s/he will be punished according to the laws of whatever state you are in when the order is violated.

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