Question: In which district court do I get the 209A order?

Answer: You can get an order at the district court in the area that you live in or, if you have fled to another area to avoid abuse, you may go to the district court in the area that you will be living in.

Go to the Clerk's office and ask for a "protective order" or a "209A order." You will receive a packet of forms to complete as an application for a protective order.

You can consult with a victim/witness advocate who works in the courthouse. This person will assist you and discuss with you the option of filing criminal charges against your abuser as well as pointing out various agencies that may also be able to assist you. The Clerk's office will also direct you to the District Attorneys Victim/Witness office to assist you.

You do not have to file criminal charges in order to get a "protective order;" however, criminal charges can be a valuable and helpful tool in holding your abuser responsible for his/her actions. If there is a criminal violation the court can order the batterer to obtain counseling or other treatment.