Protective orders go into effect the moment they are posted.

Protective orders go into effect the moment they are posted.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. They go into effect when served
• D. Not specified

Answer: (C)

Notice to the person named in the order is what makes a protective order enforceable. The respondent must be given a copy and the terms so they know what’s prohibited and what could happen if they violate it. Posting the order somewhere doesn’t bind them because they might not see it or understand it, so authorities can’t enforce it without proper notice. There are emergency (ex parte) orders that can take effect immediately to protect someone, but those are temporary and still require service on the respondent and a follow-up hearing to remain in effect. So, the enforceable date is when the person is served with the order, not when it’s posted.

Notice to the person named in the order is what makes a protective order enforceable. The respondent must be given a copy and the terms so they know what’s prohibited and what could happen if they violate it. Posting the order somewhere doesn’t bind them because they might not see it or understand it, so authorities can’t enforce it without proper notice. There are emergency (ex parte) orders that can take effect immediately to protect someone, but those are temporary and still require service on the respondent and a follow-up hearing to remain in effect. So, the enforceable date is when the person is served with the order, not when it’s posted.