Question 1

What is a Victim Impact Statement?

Accepted Answer

This is a form you will complete to let the court know how the crime has affected you. Included in the form is a section to complete that states you want to be notified of court dates you can attend. There is also a section to include any property damage, medical expenses and financial loss. If restitution is ordered by the court, this information will be used to detail the nature of your requests for restitution from the defendant.

Question 2

What happens if I am called to testify in court?

Accepted Answer

If you are called to testify as a witness in court, it is important that you review tips for testifying in court and contact your victim advocate if you have any questions.

Question 3

What is domestic violence?

Accepted Answer

Domestic Violence is any abusive or coercive behavior used to gain power and control over an intimate partner.

Question 4

What are the types of abuse?

Accepted Answer

Abuse comes in many forms, including emotional, economic, spiritual, digital, sexual, and physical.

Question 5

What is a Protection Order?

Accepted Answer

Protection Orders are similar but not identical to what had been called Restraining Orders or Peace Bonds. A Protection Order is a civil order issued by a judge that directs a person (“The Respondent”) to have no contact with you (“The Petitioner”). The Respondent cannot contact you in person, by telephone or computer, or through another party. Also, the Respondent will not be allowed to possess a firearm while the Protection Order is in effect.

Question 6

Who can apply for a Protection Order?

Accepted Answer

Under Indiana's new Civil Protection Order Act “a person who is or has been a victim of domestic or family violence may file a petition for an order for protection against a family or household member who commits an act of domestic or family violence.”

Question 7

Where do I need to go to file a Petition for a Protection Order?

Accepted Answer

You need to go to the clerk’s office, located on the second floor of the courthouse.

Question 8

What information will I need in order to fill out the Petition?

Accepted Answer

You must have the following information about the Respondent to request a Protection Order: 
Correct full name 
Correct and current address  
Correct date of birth or Social Security Number 
Additional information that will be helpful to have about the Respondent

You will also need to provide identifying characteristics of the Respondent, such as: 
Addresses frequented by the Respondent 
Employer's name and address 
Hair color 
Race
Scars 
Tattoos 
Telephone number(s) 
Weight

Question 9

How long is a Protection Order valid?

Accepted Answer

Protection Orders are valid for up to 2 years from the date of issuance.

Question 10

Is my Protection Order enforceable outside of Hendricks County?

Accepted Answer

Protection Orders are enforceable in all fifty states. You should keep a copy of your Protection Order with you at all times.

Question 11

If I get a protective order and want to drop it later, can I?

Accepted Answer

You would have to contact the court in which your order was issued. Court officials will provide you with appropriate directions.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions