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Legal Information: North Dakota

Restraining Orders

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Updated: 
March 19, 2020

Can I get my domestic violence protection order from North Dakota enforced in another state?

Yes. If you have a valid North Dakota 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.

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. This is what is meant by “full faith and credit.”

 

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