BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – A new law went into effect on Monday, making it possible for domestic abuse victims to receive protective orders outside of regular court hours.
Before Monday, if you needed a protective order against a family or household member, you could get it outside of normal court hours. What this new law—Act 12—does is expand that privilege. Now, if you’re a victim of stalking or sexual assault, you can also get a protective order anytime you need.
Starting Monday, if the courts are closed, you can call +1(800)540-9990 to request an emergency protective order through Vermont’s civil courts. A trained after-hours worker will provide you with forms you can fill out and submit.
If the protective order is necessary, the worker will reach out to a judge, and the order will be served.
