RELIEF FROM ABUSE PETITIONS
If you are in need of an order from the court ordering no contact between you
and an ex-partner, or if you have had an order served on you, consider hiring an
attorney, and consider it fast! No-contact orders come with a variety of
implications and logistical issues. In addition, the attorney can help you sort out
a final resolution without you discussing the issues with the opposing party.

In Vermont, a Relief from Abuse Order, or “RFA,” is an order from the court which
is used to stop violent, harassing and threatening behavior. First, determine if an
RFA is right for you. If it is, follow our tips for filing a Relief from Abuse.
Any family or household member may seek relief from abuse by another family or
household member on behalf of himself or herself or his or her children by filing a
complaint with the court in the Vermont county that the abuse occurred. 15 V.S.A. §
1103(a).

A violation of even a temporary RFA can result in criminal charges so it is
very important that you follow the conditions and contact us as soon as early in the process as possible to make sure you understand your options and risks.

Who qualifies for an RFA?

• Are you a “family” or “household member”?
  o A family member
  o A current or former sexual parter
  o Someone you date or used to date
  o Someone who lives with you or used to live with you
• Have you suffered “abuse” from this family or household member?
  o Attempting to cause or causing physical harm
  o Placing another in fear of imminent serious physical harm
  o Abuse to children, as defined in the statutes (33 V.S.A. § 4912)
  o Stalking, as defined in the statute (2 V.S.A. § 5131)
  o Sexual assault, as defined in the statute (12 V.S.A. § 5131)
• AND is there a danger of further abuse if an RFA is not issued?
  If you answered yes to these questions, you are likely qualifying for an RFA and
  should have an attorney who can assist you in filing for an RFA with the court in
  the county where the abuse occurred.