Orders Of Protection

Have you ever had to get an order of protection?

Its not a great experience, at the time, but well worth it.  I will never forget standing up in court, in front of a bunch of people, explaining the incidences, on why I needed this protection.  People are in court for so many reasons, and most don't understand Domestic Violence.  They listen with amazement.

I got my order of protection, and I was relieved.  I didn't have to deal to my ex-husband.  I was lucky enough to have delt with a legal advocate, who would drop my daughter off for visitation.

When I actually went back to court for my final divorce hearing, my ex-husband didn't even show up.  The judge took out another order of protection of the next year to follow.

What your experiences with orders of protections?

Did your abuser co-operate with the order?  Did  you think it scared them?

I know my abuser was terrified to end up in jail if he violated the order, so I guess it worked.  He usually thought he was above the law, but this was a great reality check.