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Legal Information: Rhode Island

Restraining Orders

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Laws current as of July 19, 2024

How do I change or extend my order?

If you want to change (modify) your order, you can return to the court where you got it and file a modification petition. The abuser will be served and there will be a hearing date set. You will have to explain to the judge at the hearing why the order should be changed in the way you are requesting.

To extend your order, you can return to the court where you got it and file a renewal petition. You must request the renewal before your order expires.1 A judge may renew your order for as long as the judge believes you need it to protect you from abuse.2 You can renew your order more than once.

1 R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-8.1-7
2 R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 8-8.1-3(n); 15-15-3(m)(2)

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