Restraining Order v. Protective Order
Generally, restraining orders are different than protective orders in that they are civil as opposed to criminal. In other words, normally one applies for a restraining order at the civil clerk's office. Thereafter, the civil court, upon sufficient evidence, then orders the restraining order. The penalties for a violation of the restraining order are civil penalties, as opposed to criminal consequences.
On the other hand, criminal protective orders typically apply in a family violence situation and are usually issued after an accused has been arrested for committing a family violence crime.
The penalty for violating the protective order is a criminal violation, as opposed to a civil penalty. Both essentially accomplish the same purpose, protecting a particular individual. However, the methods for obtaining either order and the consequences for violating the orders are different. As always, consult an attorney for further advice.
