Restraining Orders

A mutual order occurs when one person files for an order and instead of granting the order to the petitioner, the judge issues an order for the petitioner and defendant against each other.¹ Under New Hampshire law, a judge cannot grant a mutual order.¹

A cross-order occurs when each party files a petition for a protective order against each other. The judge can only grant a cross-order if:

• the judge has specifically determined that each party has committed abuse against the other; and
• the is unable to figure out who is the primary physical aggressor.²

¹ N.H. Rev. Stat. § 173-B:5(V)(a)
² N.H. Rev. Stat. § 173-B:5(V)(b)